Competing Visions of Human Dignity: on the Foundation of Missions

Abstract Human dignity, superficially at least, seems a noncontroversial goal or basis for mission, specifically Christian mission, to further. This brief essay will challenge this assumption by sharing perspectives on human dignity from the field of bioethics. A moral narrative is given on how appeals to human dignity have failed to resolve ethical controversy. Finally, the essay encourages that only an incarnational and embodied human dignity is worthy of furthering in Christian missions. Some practical advice gained from the field of bioethics is offered regarding how to live and advance the good despite competing visions of human dignity.