moral/ethics

What is Human Dignity in Catholicism?

Every person has inherent worth because they are made in God’s image (Imago Dei).

Is Catholic human dignity permanent?

Yes. It is universal and God-given and cannot be lost.

How should Catholics show human dignity?

Through love, justice, compassion, equality, and protecting vulnerable people.

What is mana?

A person's spiritual authority, dignity, standing, and influence.

What is manaakitanga?

Caring for, respecting, and uplifting others, which strengthens their mana.

How can mana change?

Mana can be gained, maintained, or diminished through a person's actions and relationships.

How does reciprocity relate to mana?

Uplifting others’ mana can strengthen your own, while diminishing others can diminish your own.

What is the key difference between Human Dignity and mana?

Catholic dignity is universal and permanent, grounded in God. Māori mana is relational and dynamic, grounded in whakapapa, relationships, and actions.

How are Human Dignity and mana similar?

Both require respect, care, and concern for the wellbeing of others.

What is Natural Law?

The Catholic belief that morality can be understood through human reason, Scripture, Jesus’ teachings, and Church authority.

What guides Catholic morality?

The 10 Commandments and Jesus’ command to love God and your neighbour.

What should Catholic actions aim to do?

Respect human dignity, promote the common good, and avoid sin.

What is tikanga?

The Māori correct customs, values, and ways of doing things.

What shapes tikanga?

Whakapapa, relationships with tūpuna, connection to the land, mana, and community wellbeing.

What is an example of tikanga?

Manaakitanga — showing care, generosity, hospitality, and respect towards others.

What is the key difference between Natural Law and tikanga?

Catholic ethics are universal moral laws grounded in God and reason, while Māori ethics are relationship-based and contextual, guided by ancestral traditions and harmony with the natural world.

How are Natural Law and tikanga similar?

Both promote respect, responsibility, compassion, and the wellbeing of others.