Human dignity, a cornerstone of personalism

Personalism is a relatively young branch of philosophy, yet, it has its roots in ancient ideas. Among other influences, it draws on the Christian understanding of human dignity. Human dignity is an idea that dates back to time immemorial. Although the term itself was coined during the Renaissance, it can, in a sense, be seen as an expression of the Christian view of man. At the same time, human dignity, dignitas humana, has always been contrasted in theology with human misery, miseria. Human existence can only be understood through the paradox that man is simultaneously dignified and miserable, with life unfolding between these two extremes.