The History of Human Freedom and Dignity in Western Civilization (HHFDWC)

Basic data for this project

Description

The ITN “The History of Human Freedom and Dignity in Western Civilization” is a research collaboration between 6 universities and 9 non-academic partner organizations across Europe. The project will trace the historical roots and transformations of the modern conception of humans as dignified and free beings, especially as met with in theological and philosophical traditions. These values are dominant in modern western societies, but are and have always been under attack by different societal developments and groups with a much more negative view on humans. By studying the reception and battles that these values have already gone through, we can use these as a hermeneutical key to understand later, modern debates of human freedom, free will and dignity. Thereby, the project will raise awareness of how ancient philosophical and religious tenets still shape political, moral, and anthropological categories and modes of thinking as well as principles of human conduct.