WHAT IS HUMAN DIGNITY AND HOW CAN WE PROTECT IT? 2
DISCOVER THE FACTS Why focus on human dignity?
If we can agree on the basic requirements for human dignity, this gives us a good starting point to try to make our community, our country or our world fairer and a better place to live for everyone.
But how can we tell the difference between something that is essential for human dignity and something that is not? After all, humans have different priorities and interests and live in lots of different situations around the world.
What is a need and what is a want?
A basic need is something we need to survive, such as food or shelter. A want is something you would like to have, but can live without. A good start is to practise separating ‘needs’ from ‘wants’. Look at the table below and see if you agree with each item.
Needs A shelter that is safe and warm
Enough of the right foods to stay healthy and strong
Clean drinking water Clean clothes that keep us warm enough
Wants
A house with a pool for hot summer days Fast food, crisps, sweets
