Four Types of Dignity
Ontological Dignity (Who we are)
In 2024, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith published Dignitas Infinita which clarified the four distinct types of dignity that belong to the human person. The first and most important of the four is ontological dignity. This describes the infinite amount of dignity each person acquires simply because God willed and loved them into existence. This is a foundational part of every human being; it can never be lost, no matter the circumstance.
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart." (Jeremiah 1:5)
Moral Dignity (How we choose to live)
Moral dignity tells of how a person chooses to exercise their God-given freedom. The moral dignity of a person can be increased through virtuous acts, just as it can be lost through evil wrongdoings. When one acts against their conscience, they act in a way that is “not dignified” with respect to their nature as creatures who are loved by God and called to love others.
"Be doers of the word, and not hearers only." (James 1:22)
Social Dignity (How society treats people)
Social dignity describes the quality of a person’s living conditions and respect shown to them by society. Living situations can be “undignified” when they are not suitable enough to reflect their innate dignity as human beings, like in cases of extreme poverty.
"Share your bread with the hungry... do not turn your back on your own flesh." (Isaiah 58:6-10)
Existential Dignity (How we view ourselves)
Existential dignity reflects how one perceives their own worth and the value of life. Examples like serious illness, unsafe family environments, and other specific misfortunes may lead a person to believe that their life does not have worth. When a soul struggles to find peace, joy, and hope, they may become uncertain of the truth that their life is undeniably and intrinsically dignified.
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18)
Reflection Questions
- Can ontological dignity ever be lost? Why or why not?
- Which type of dignity focuses on how a person experiences or perceives their own worth?
- What role does conscience play in moral dignity?