UNIVERSAL ETHICAL PRINCIPLES as FOUNDATIONS for HUMAN … · Debates within the Commission on Human...

Universal Ethical Principles as F d ti f H Ri htFoundations of Human Rights

JESUS GONZALEZ LOSADAJESUS GONZALEZ LOSADAhttp://jesushttp://jesus--gonzalezgonzalez--losada.blogspot.com/losada.blogspot.com/

US Declaration of Independence:US Declaration of Independence:“ d d b th i C t ith t i i li bl Ri ht ”“ d d b th i C t ith t i i li bl Ri ht ”“endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights”“endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights”

Declarations of rights in both the United Declarations of rights in both the United States and France, which are bases of States and France, which are bases of modern political thought modern political thought begin with a begin with a modern political thought, modern political thought, begin with a begin with a reference to God as the source of rights:reference to God as the source of rights:

“We hold these truths to be self evident, “We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal, that they that all men are created equal, that they

d d b th i C t ith t i d d b th i C t ith t i are endowed by their Creator with certain are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Life, Liberty and the pursuit of , y p, y pHappiness.”Happiness.”(DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE (DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE -- July 4, 1776)July 4, 1776)

French Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen:French Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen:“under the auspices of the Supreme Being”“under the auspices of the Supreme Being”

“… the National Assembly recognizes and declares, in the presence and under the auspices of the Supreme Being, the following rights of man and of the citizen”recognizing them as “natural, inalienable recognizing them as natural, inalienable and sacred.”(Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen (Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen, Paris, August 26, 1789)

If the If the Universal Declaration of Human RightsUniversal Declaration of Human Rights is a synthesis of previous is a synthesis of previous thinking about thinking about human rights,human rights, why is there no mention of God?why is there no mention of God?

Early Draft of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights:“ d d b th i t ith d i ”“endowed by their nature with reason and conscience”

The draft of the first article, stating that “The draft of the first article, stating that “human beings arehuman beings are endowed by their natureendowed by their nature with with The draft of the first article, stating that The draft of the first article, stating that human beings arehuman beings are endowed by their natureendowed by their nature with with reason and conscience,”reason and conscience,” was debated between September 21 and December 8, 1948. was debated between September 21 and December 8, 1948.

R. CassinR. CassinDr. Dr. MalikMalik Dr. ChangDr. Chang

Dr. Dr. MalikMalik

The delegation from Brazil suggested that the The delegation from Brazil suggested that the first first article of the Declarationarticle of the Declaration read as follows:read as follows:““Created in the image and likeness of GodCreated in the image and likeness of God they are they areCreated in the image and likeness of GodCreated in the image and likeness of God, they are, they areendowed with reason and conscience and should act endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”

Austregésilo de Athayde Austregésilo de Athayde

Debates within the Commission on Human Rights about a reference to God in theUNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

“With the goal of defending the rights proclaimed by “With the goal of defending the rights proclaimed by the declaration it is important that they not be the declaration it is important that they not be the declaration, it is important that they not be the declaration, it is important that they not be expressed in terms that are too general. In the expressed in terms that are too general. In the Preamble,Preamble, there should be a reference to God as the there should be a reference to God as the absolute origin of human rightsabsolute origin of human rights as of all rights as of all rights absolute origin of human rightsabsolute origin of human rights,, as of all rights. as of all rights.

This would recognize the importance of the great This would recognize the importance of the great spiritual currents for maintaining and developing spiritual currents for maintaining and developing spiritual currents for maintaining and developing spiritual currents for maintaining and developing international cooperation…. international cooperation….

Th k f th C i i ld b h Th k f th C i i ld b h The work of the Commission would be much more The work of the Commission would be much more profoundly tied to the will and hopes of the masses of profoundly tied to the will and hopes of the masses of people if, instead of being only a dry expression of people if, instead of being only a dry expression of

ti hil h it ld l fl t th ti hil h it ld l fl t th Austregésilo de Athayde Austregésilo de Athayde Representative of Brazil Representative of Brazil agnostic philosophy, it would also reflect the agnostic philosophy, it would also reflect the

religious faith of the greater part of humanity.”religious faith of the greater part of humanity.”Representative of Brazil Representative of Brazil

in the Commissionin the Commission


Charles H MalikCharles H Malik of Lebanon wanted an explicit of Lebanon wanted an explicit Charles H. MalikCharles H. Malik of Lebanon wanted an explicit of Lebanon wanted an explicit reference to God in the first article, to establish that reference to God in the first article, to establish that people are endowed with people are endowed with “some inalienable rights “some inalienable rights

i b th i C t ”i b th i C t ”given by their Creator.”given by their Creator.”

René CassinRené Cassin of France, among others, did not agree, of France, among others, did not agree, e é Casse é Cass o a ce, a o g ot e s, d d ot ag ee,o a ce, a o g ot e s, d d ot ag ee,because this could have reduced the universality of because this could have reduced the universality of the document. Priority was placed on gaining the document. Priority was placed on gaining universal support for a proclamation of human universal support for a proclamation of human

Charles H. MalikCharles H. Malik

universal support for a proclamation of human universal support for a proclamation of human rights in a complex world divided by traditions, rights in a complex world divided by traditions, religions, and ideologies with different view of lifereligions, and ideologies with different view of life..

((René CassinRené Cassin asked that the Declaration be defined asked that the Declaration be defined as “universal” instead of “international ”) as “universal” instead of “international ”) as universal instead of international. ) as universal instead of international. )

René CassinRené Cassin


Dr. PengDr. Peng--Chun ChangChun Chang of China wanted to of China wanted to accommodate the Confucian perspective, which accommodate the Confucian perspective, which

k l d “h ” b t d t h k l d “h ” b t d t h acknowledges “heaven” but does not have a acknowledges “heaven” but does not have a concept of God. Han had concept of God. Han had ““GodGod”” and and ““by natureby nature””eliminated from the text of Article 1, which in its eliminated from the text of Article 1, which in its eliminated from the text of Article 1, which in its eliminated from the text of Article 1, which in its final form reads:final form reads:Dr. Chang PengDr. Chang Peng--chunchun

“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. g g y gg g y gThey are endowed with reason and conscience and should act They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act

towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”

Consider adding reference to God in theConsider adding reference to God in theUNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTSUNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

More than 60 years later, it is time to More than 60 years later, it is time to

UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTSUNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

yyconsider adding a consider adding a references to God references to God and absolute valuesand absolute values without danger of without danger of losing universal acceptancelosing universal acceptance losing universal acceptancelosing universal acceptance. .

One way of protecting the necessary One way of protecting the necessary “ i lit ” ( ti ll iti ) “ i lit ” ( ti ll iti ) “universality” (respecting all positions) “universality” (respecting all positions) is to use the elegant text of the is to use the elegant text of the Preamble to the Constitution of Poland, Preamble to the Constitution of Poland, Preamble to the Constitution of Poland, Preamble to the Constitution of Poland, which recognizeswhich recognizes ""those who believe those who believe that God is the origin of justice, beauty that God is the origin of justice, beauty and goodnessand goodness [the bases of human [the bases of human and goodnessand goodness,, [the bases of human [the bases of human rights] rights] and many other values, and and many other values, and those who may not believe in God but those who may not believe in God but Eleanor Roosevelt holding up the Universal Eleanor Roosevelt holding up the Universal yystill appreciate these values.“still appreciate these values.“Declaration of Human Rights in Spanish.Declaration of Human Rights in Spanish.

Human Rights: Granted by Law and Endowed by NatureHuman Rights: Granted by Law and Endowed by Nature

Adherents of natural lawAdherents of natural law hold that human rights do not reside in legal hold that human rights do not reside in legal g gg gdocuments but are inherent in our very nature as human beings, a nature documents but are inherent in our very nature as human beings, a nature that is superior to and precedes all legal decrees. Religious traditions hold that is superior to and precedes all legal decrees. Religious traditions hold that such that such natural rightsnatural rights are Godare God--given characteristicsgiven characteristicsthat such that such natural rightsnatural rights are Godare God--given characteristics.given characteristics.

Adherents of positivismAdherents of positivism hold that the only rights are those accorded by hold that the only rights are those accorded by l l d t l l d t “Ri h hi “Ri h hi i i b hi h i i b hi h legal documents. legal documents. “Rights are not something pre“Rights are not something pre--existing by nature which existing by nature which we may discovered, such as chromosomes or continents. Rights are we may discovered, such as chromosomes or continents. Rights are something that we create through our conventions. Thus, the question is something that we create through our conventions. Thus, the question is something that we create through our conventions. Thus, the question is something that we create through our conventions. Thus, the question is not what rights do creatures have but rather what rights do we want to not what rights do creatures have but rather what rights do we want to have?” have?” -- Jesús Mosterín. “Creating Rights.” El País, 29Jesús Mosterín. “Creating Rights.” El País, 29--88--1999 1999


""Only if they are grounded in the objective Only if they are grounded in the objective requirements of the nature bestowed on man by the Creator, can the rights attributed to him be ffi d ith t f f t di ti affirmed without fear of contradiction.... ....

Consequently it is important for international agencies not to lose sight of the natural age c es ot to ose s g t o t e atu afoundation of human rights. This would enable them to avoid the risk, unfortunately ever-present of sliding towards a merely positivistic present, of sliding towards a merely positivistic interpretation of those rights.” .”

Benedict XVI Message on the World Day of Peace January 1 2007Benedict XVI Message on the World Day of Peace January 1 2007Benedict XVI. Message on the World Day of Peace, January 1, 2007Benedict XVI. Message on the World Day of Peace, January 1, 2007


The protection of love and life, freedom of The protection of love and life, freedom of The protection of love and life, freedom of The protection of love and life, freedom of conscience and responsibility as well as property conscience and responsibility as well as property and many other and many other inalienable rightsinalienable rights do not exist do not exist merely because some people have discovered or merely because some people have discovered or y p py p precognized them or because laws have been recognized them or because laws have been decreed about them. decreed about them.

On the contrary, love, life, freedom of conscience, On the contrary, love, life, freedom of conscience, and responsibility as well as property in fact existed and responsibility as well as property in fact existed before hand. This gave people the need to make before hand. This gave people the need to make laws for their protection. laws for their protection.

The existence of The existence of a written constitutiona written constitution which expresses the sovereign will of the people and which expresses the sovereign will of the people and their families in terms of principles of justice and natural law is the most effective protection their families in terms of principles of justice and natural law is the most effective protection against the abuse of power, destruction of liberty, and human weaknesses of those who against the abuse of power, destruction of liberty, and human weaknesses of those who govern us. govern us.

Human Rights Are Conferred by GodHuman Rights Are Conferred by God

Each and every human being, without Each and every human being, without Each and every human being, without Each and every human being, without distinction of gender, race, ethnicity, distinction of gender, race, ethnicity, class or social condition possesses the class or social condition possesses the same special dignitysame special dignity by nature or by nature or same special dignity,same special dignity, by nature or by nature or because it was conferred by Godbecause it was conferred by God, which , which distinguishes them from the rest of the distinguishes them from the rest of the ggcreatures, and they bear the same creatures, and they bear the same sacred, cosmic, unique, and eternal sacred, cosmic, unique, and eternal value which is innate and intrinsic to value which is innate and intrinsic to value which is innate and intrinsic to value which is innate and intrinsic to their human condition, and therefore their human condition, and therefore they all merit the same exquisite they all merit the same exquisite

id ti d t t t id ti d t t t consideration and greatest respect. consideration and greatest respect. (Dr. Miguel Angel Cano (Dr. Miguel Angel Cano –– Ethics and Peace)Ethics and Peace)

OUROUR ORIGINAL ORIGINAL VALUEVALUEE h i k bl i l bl d i lit ith bl Each person is an unknowable, irreplaceable and unique reality, with an unrenounceable dignity; That's why people are not means to an end, but an end in themselves. Each person originally has a divine, eternal, unique and cosmic value:

1. Divine ValueDivine Value -- We have the intrinsic and We have the intrinsic and inalienable dignity of been sons and inalienable dignity of been sons and daughters of God.daughters of God.daughters of God.daughters of God.

2.2. Eternal Value Eternal Value -- We are eternal beings that We are eternal beings that will live forever in the spiritual world with will live forever in the spiritual world with GodGodGod.God.

3.3. Unique ValueUnique Value -- There was, is and never will There was, is and never will be someone equal to each one of us. We are be someone equal to each one of us. We are qqunique, unrepeatable and irreplaceable. unique, unrepeatable and irreplaceable.

4.4. Cosmic Value.Cosmic Value. We are the visible We are the visible manifestation of an invisible creator God's manifestation of an invisible creator God's manifestation of an invisible creator, God s manifestation of an invisible creator, God s image and likeness. We are a microcosm of image and likeness. We are a microcosm of the macrocosm.the macrocosm.

Therefore, each person is the recipient of these transcendent values which constitutes the Therefore, each person is the recipient of these transcendent values which constitutes the foundation for our dignity and all Universal Human Rightsfoundation for our dignity and all Universal Human Rights..

Each Person Has Sacred ValueEach Person Has Sacred Value

Judaism:Judaism: “Then the Lord God formed man out of the dust of the ground, “Then the Lord God formed man out of the dust of the ground, d b th d i t hi t il th b th f lif d b li i d b th d i t hi t il th b th f lif d b li i and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living

being.” being.” Genesis 2.7Genesis 2.7

Christianity:Christianity: “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Christianity:Christianity: Do you not know that you are God s temple and that God s Do you not know that you are God s temple and that God s spirit dwells in you?” spirit dwells in you?” I Corinthians 3:16I Corinthians 3:16

Islam:Islam: “He shaped him, and breathed His spirit in him.” “He shaped him, and breathed His spirit in him.” Qur’an 32.8Qur’an 32.8--99Islam:Islam: He shaped him, and breathed His spirit in him. He shaped him, and breathed His spirit in him. Qur an 32.8Qur an 32.8 99

Sikhism:Sikhism: “All from one clay are made; in all one Light shines. One breath “All from one clay are made; in all one Light shines. One breath pervades all.” pervades all.” Adi Granth, Gauri, M.5 p. 188Adi Granth, Gauri, M.5 p. 188

Hinduism:Hinduism: “That which is the finest essence“That which is the finest essence——this whole world has that as this whole world has that as its soul. That is Reality. That is the Self. That art thou.” its soul. That is Reality. That is the Self. That art thou.” Changogya Upanishad Changogya Upanishad 6 8 76 8 76.8.76.8.7

Confucianism:Confucianism: “Fire blazing from the earth. The superior man reflects in “Fire blazing from the earth. The superior man reflects in his person the glory of [Heaven’s] virtue.” his person the glory of [Heaven’s] virtue.” I Ching 35: ProgressI Ching 35: Progresshis person the glory of [Heaven s] virtue. his person the glory of [Heaven s] virtue. I Ching 35: ProgressI Ching 35: Progress

Each Person Has Cosmic ValueEach Person Has Cosmic Value

Judaism:Judaism: ““All that the Holy One created in the world He created in man.” All that the Holy One created in the world He created in man.” Talmud Abot de Rabbi Nathan 31Talmud Abot de Rabbi Nathan 31Talmud. Abot de Rabbi Nathan 31Talmud. Abot de Rabbi Nathan 31

Christianity:Christianity: ““For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life?” forfeits his life?” Matthew 16:26Matthew 16:26forfeits his life? forfeits his life? Matthew 16:26Matthew 16:26

Islam:Islam: “We shall show them Our signs in the horizons and in themselves, “We shall show them Our signs in the horizons and in themselves, till it is clear to them that it is the truth ” till it is clear to them that it is the truth ” Qur’an 41 53Qur’an 41 53till it is clear to them that it is the truth. till it is clear to them that it is the truth. Qur an. 41.53Qur an. 41.53

Hinduism:Hinduism: “Man is the product of the attributes of Heaven and Earth, by the “Man is the product of the attributes of Heaven and Earth, by the interaction of the dual forces of nature the union of the animal and interaction of the dual forces of nature the union of the animal and interaction of the dual forces of nature, the union of the animal and interaction of the dual forces of nature, the union of the animal and intelligent souls, and the finest subtle matter o the five elements.” intelligent souls, and the finest subtle matter o the five elements.” Aitareya Aitareya Upanishad 1.1 Upanishad 1.1

Buddhism:Buddhism: “The Essence of Mind is great because it embraces all things, “The Essence of Mind is great because it embraces all things, since all things are within our nature.” since all things are within our nature.” Sutra of Hui Neng 2Sutra of Hui Neng 2

Judaism:Judaism: “The dust returns to the earth as it was and the spirit returns to “The dust returns to the earth as it was and the spirit returns to Each Person Has Eternal ValueEach Person Has Eternal Value

Judaism:Judaism: “The dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to “The dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.” God who gave it.” Ecclesiastes 12:7Ecclesiastes 12:7Christianity:Christianity: “For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we “For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we Christianity:Christianity: For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” heavens.” 2 Corinthians 5:12 Corinthians 5:1Islam:Islam: “Y f thi lif lth h th lif t i b tt d “Y f thi lif lth h th lif t i b tt d Islam:Islam: “You prefer this life, although the life to come is better and more “You prefer this life, although the life to come is better and more enduring.” enduring.” Qur’an 87.16Qur’an 87.16Sikhism:Sikhism: “Man wails over the loss of what he calls his: know the Self is not “Man wails over the loss of what he calls his: know the Self is not Sikhism:Sikhism: Man wails over the loss of what he calls his: know, the Self is not Man wails over the loss of what he calls his: know, the Self is not perishable.” perishable.” Adi Granth, Gauri, M.5 p. 188Adi Granth, Gauri, M.5 p. 188Hinduism:Hinduism: “Now my breath and spirit goes to the Immortal, and this body “Now my breath and spirit goes to the Immortal, and this body ends in ashes.” ends in ashes.” Isha Upanishad 27Isha Upanishad 27Confucianism:Confucianism: “All living living must die, and dying, return to the ground…. “All living living must die, and dying, return to the ground…. But the spirit issues forth and is displayed on high in a condition of glorious But the spirit issues forth and is displayed on high in a condition of glorious But the spirit issues forth, and is displayed on high in a condition of glorious But the spirit issues forth, and is displayed on high in a condition of glorious brightness.” brightness.” Book of Ritual 21.2.1Book of Ritual 21.2.1Native American Religions:Native American Religions: “Mourners who wail for their dead hear spirit “Mourners who wail for their dead hear spirit gg ppvoices reply, and thus they know that their lost ones are always near.” voices reply, and thus they know that their lost ones are always near.” Yakima Yakima traditiontradition

“The family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is “The family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the state.”entitled to protection by society and the state.”p y yp y y

Paragraph 3, Article 16 Paragraph 3, Article 16 -- Universal Declaration of Human Rights Universal Declaration of Human Rights -- 1948 1948

As the school of love and seedbed of peace, the family is indispensable to the As the school of love and seedbed of peace, the family is indispensable to the functioning of any society. Religious teachings encourage love in our homes, functioning of any society. Religious teachings encourage love in our homes, which is the basis for peaceful and thriving societies, nations, and the world.which is the basis for peaceful and thriving societies, nations, and the world.

The family is sovereign.The family is sovereign. The original and eternal love designed The original and eternal love designed y gy g g gg gand blessed by God between husband and wife is a sacred and absolute and blessed by God between husband and wife is a sacred and absolute birthright. birthright. The family holds fundamental and intrinsic rightsThe family holds fundamental and intrinsic rights, which originate , which originate from a sovereign inner authority (which are not determined by the State from a sovereign inner authority (which are not determined by the State from a sovereign inner authority (which are not determined by the State, from a sovereign inner authority (which are not determined by the State, neither by any other authority or institution), in fact, the sovereign family is neither by any other authority or institution), in fact, the sovereign family is preceding any State or institution and constitutes the foundation for all preceding any State or institution and constitutes the foundation for all p g yp g yauthority. This sovereign authority is the only capable to originate the first of authority. This sovereign authority is the only capable to originate the first of all social institutions: all social institutions: The family founded on marriageThe family founded on marriage as as primordial society primordial society and common patrimony of humanityand common patrimony of humanityand common patrimony of humanity.and common patrimony of humanity.

The family is sovereignThe family is sovereign Constitutions and laws should Constitutions and laws should The family is sovereign.The family is sovereign. Constitutions and laws should Constitutions and laws should recognize that each person and family cannot delegate or assign any recognize that each person and family cannot delegate or assign any power to their government or other authorities except that which power to their government or other authorities except that which power to their government or other authorities except that which power to their government or other authorities except that which they have lawful right to exercise themselves.they have lawful right to exercise themselves.Any immoral conduct or social and economic illegal activity which is Any immoral conduct or social and economic illegal activity which is Any immoral conduct or social and economic illegal activity which is Any immoral conduct or social and economic illegal activity which is forbidden to a person cannot be allowed to a group, government or forbidden to a person cannot be allowed to a group, government or state.state.

CARACTERISTICS of conjugal love:

1. Being an expression of God's love.2. Total (From the whole person to whole person –

embrace the totality of the person spirit and body) 3. Faithful (“I will be your man or your woman in 3. Faithful ( I will be your man or your woman in

exclusivity and forever”)4. Exclusive (only for the spouse)5 S l 5. Sexual (different from other forms of love,

paternal, filial, fraternal, it is unique, designed and destined to unite “two in one flesh”)

6. Close and Intimate (being sexual and exclusive it becomes close and intimate)

7 Fecund (open to paternity and maternity the 7. Fecund (open to paternity and maternity, the transmission of life and LINEAGE)

8. Committed (generates inescapable rights and duties)duties)

The Family as the School of Love and Seedbed of PeaceThe Family as the School of Love and Seedbed of Peace

filial pietyfilial piety fidelity in marriagefidelity in marriagefraternityfraternity loyaltyloyalty4 ethical imperatives:4 ethical imperatives:

These promote good interactionsThese promote good interactionsChildrenChildren

WifeWifeSiblingsSiblings

ParentsParentsHusbandHusbandSiblingsSiblingsp gp g gg

PeoplePeoplegg

PeoplePeople

FILIAL PIETYFILIAL PIETYJudaism & Christianity: “Honor your father and your mother.” Exodus 20.12Islam: “The Lord has decreed … that you be kind to your parents.” Qur’an 17.23Islam: The Lord has decreed … that you be kind to your parents. Qur an 17.23Hinduism: “Let your mother be to you like unto a god! Let your father be to you like unto a god!” Taittiriyaka Upanishad 1:11.2Buddhism: “Those who wish to be born in [the Pure Land] of Buddha … should act filially [ ] ytowards their parents and support them.” Meditation on Buddha Amitayus 27Confucianism: “Surely proper behavior towards parents and elder brothers is the trunk of Goodness.” Analects 1.2Af i T diti l R li iAfrican Traditional Religions: “If your parents take care of you up to the time you cut your teeth, you take care of them when they lose theirs.” Akan Proverb (Ghana)

FIDELITY IN MARRIAGEFIDELITY IN MARRIAGEJ d iJ d iJudaism:Judaism: ““A man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall A man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” become one flesh.” Genesis 2:24Genesis 2:24Christianity:Christianity: “What God has joined together, let not man put asunder.” “What God has joined together, let not man put asunder.” Mark 10:9Mark 10:9yyIslam:Islam: “He has planted affection and mercy between you.” “He has planted affection and mercy between you.” Qur’an 30.21Qur’an 30.21Hinduism:Hinduism: “Enshrine me in your heart and let one spirit dwell within us.” “Enshrine me in your heart and let one spirit dwell within us.” Atharva Veda 7:36Atharva Veda 7:36Confucianism:Confucianism: “I will love you, and will never be weary of you.” “I will love you, and will never be weary of you.” Book of Songs, Ode 218Book of Songs, Ode 218

FRATERNITYFRATERNITYFRATERNITYFRATERNITYJudaism:Judaism: “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.” “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.” Psalm 133:1Psalm 133:1Christianity:Christianity: “Every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment ” “Every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment ” Matthew 5:22Matthew 5:22Christianity:Christianity: Every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment. Every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment. Matthew 5:22Matthew 5:22Islam:Islam: “Set things right between your two brothers, and fear God; haply so you will find mercy.” “Set things right between your two brothers, and fear God; haply so you will find mercy.” Qur’an 49:10Qur’an 49:10C f i iC f i iConfucianism:Confucianism: “When brothers live in concord and at peace, the strain of harmony shall never “When brothers live in concord and at peace, the strain of harmony shall never cease.” cease.” Doctrine of the Mean 15.3Doctrine of the Mean 15.3Hinduism:Hinduism: “One is my brother and the other is not “One is my brother and the other is not –– is the thinking of a small men or a narrowis the thinking of a small men or a narrow--minded person. For those who are broadminded person. For those who are broad--minded or wise people the entire world is a one big family.” minded or wise people the entire world is a one big family.” Maha Upanishad 6:72Maha Upanishad 6:72

LOYALTYLOYALTYLOYALTYLOYALTYHinduism:Hinduism: “Sit in the assembly of the honest; join with those that are good and virtuous; “Sit in the assembly of the honest; join with those that are good and virtuous; nay, seek out a noble enemy where enmity cannot be helped and have nothing to do with the nay, seek out a noble enemy where enmity cannot be helped and have nothing to do with the nay, seek out a noble enemy where enmity cannot be helped and have nothing to do with the nay, seek out a noble enemy where enmity cannot be helped and have nothing to do with the wicked and the unrighteous. Even in bondage you should live with the virtuous, the erudite, wicked and the unrighteous. Even in bondage you should live with the virtuous, the erudite, and the truthful, but not for a kingdom should you stay with the wicked and the malicious.” and the truthful, but not for a kingdom should you stay with the wicked and the malicious.” Garuda Purana 112Garuda Purana 112Islam:Islam: And the believers, men and women, are protecting friends one of another; they And the believers, men and women, are protecting friends one of another; they enjoin the right and forbid the wrong, and they establish worship and pay the poorenjoin the right and forbid the wrong, and they establish worship and pay the poor--due, and due, and they obey God and His messenger.”they obey God and His messenger.” Qur’an 9.71Qur’an 9.71Buddhism:Buddhism: “As the man one makes his friend, as the one he follows, such does he himself “As the man one makes his friend, as the one he follows, such does he himself become.”become.” Itivuttaka 68Itivuttaka 68C f i iC f i iConfucianism:Confucianism: “When two people are at one in their inmost hearts, they shatter even the “When two people are at one in their inmost hearts, they shatter even the strength of iron or of bronze. When two people understand each other in their inmost hearts, strength of iron or of bronze. When two people understand each other in their inmost hearts, their words are sweet and strong, like the fragrance of orchids.” their words are sweet and strong, like the fragrance of orchids.” I Ching, Great Commentary I Ching, Great Commentary 1 8 61 8 61.8.61.8.6ChristianityChristianity: : “Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his “Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” friends.” John 15:13John 15:13

P i it f i i i iP i it f i i i iUnconditional Giving as an Extension of the Parental HeartUnconditional Giving as an Extension of the Parental HeartPriority of giving over receivingPriority of giving over receivingChristianity:Christianity: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35Acts 20:35Hi d iHi d iHinduism:Hinduism: “Giving simply because it is right to give, without thought of return, at a proper “Giving simply because it is right to give, without thought of return, at a proper time, in proper circumstances, and to a worthy person is enlightened giving.” time, in proper circumstances, and to a worthy person is enlightened giving.” Bhagavad Gita Bhagavad Gita 17:2017:20Buddhism:Buddhism: “Enlightened beings are magnanimous givers, bestowing whatever they have “Enlightened beings are magnanimous givers, bestowing whatever they have with equanimity, without regret, without hoping for reward, without seeking honor.” Garland with equanimity, without regret, without hoping for reward, without seeking honor.” Garland Sutra 21Sutra 21The supreme value of unconditional loveThe supreme value of unconditional loveConfucianism:Confucianism: “One who extends his bounty can bring peace to the Four Seas.” “One who extends his bounty can bring peace to the Four Seas.” Mencius !.A.7Mencius !.A.7Hinduism: Hinduism: “Compassion is the root of all religious faiths.” “Compassion is the root of all religious faiths.” Basavanna, Vacana 247Basavanna, Vacana 247Buddhism:Buddhism: “I should be like the sun, shining universally on all without seeking thanks or “I should be like the sun, shining universally on all without seeking thanks or reward.” reward.” Garland Sutra 23Garland Sutra 23Judaism: Judaism: “Aid an enemy before you aid a friend, to subdue hatred.” “Aid an enemy before you aid a friend, to subdue hatred.” Tosefta, Baba Metzia 2:26Tosefta, Baba Metzia 2:26Christianity: Christianity: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Matthew 5:44Matthew 5:44Islam: Islam: “Repel the evil deed with one which is better and lo! he between whom and you there “Repel the evil deed with one which is better and lo! he between whom and you there Islam: Islam: Repel the evil deed with one which is better, and lo!, he between whom and you there Repel the evil deed with one which is better, and lo!, he between whom and you there was enmity shall become as though he were a bosom friend.” was enmity shall become as though he were a bosom friend.” Qur’an 41.34Qur’an 41.34

Religion Gives Both Vertical and Horizontal OrientationsReligion Gives Both Vertical and Horizontal OrientationsSpiritual and religions traditions have a vertical role, which calls us to a Spiritual and religions traditions have a vertical role, which calls us to a

relationship with the Creator, and a horizontal dimension, which calls us to relationship with the Creator, and a horizontal dimension, which calls us to accept respect and love othersaccept respect and love others

GODGOD

accept, respect, and love others.accept, respect, and love others.

HUMANITYHUMANITY

Judaism:Judaism: “You shall love the Lord your God will all your heart, and with all your “You shall love the Lord your God will all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.” soul, and with all your might.” Deuteronomy 6:5Deuteronomy 6:5Christianity:Christianity: “Our Father, who art in heaven.” “Our Father, who art in heaven.” Matthew 6:9Matthew 6:9Islam:Islam: “In the name of God, the Beneficent, the Merciful.” “In the name of God, the Beneficent, the Merciful.” Qur’an 1:1Qur’an 1:1Confucianism:Confucianism: “The superior man, taking his stance as righteousness requires, “The superior man, taking his stance as righteousness requires, adheres firmly to Heaven’s decrees.” adheres firmly to Heaven’s decrees.” I Ching 50: Sacrificial vesselI Ching 50: Sacrificial vesselHinduism: Hinduism: “From the unreal lead me to the Real! From darkness lead me to the “From the unreal lead me to the Real! From darkness lead me to the Hinduism: Hinduism: From the unreal lead me to the Real! From darkness lead me to the From the unreal lead me to the Real! From darkness lead me to the light!” light!” Brihaaranyaka Upanishad 1.3.28Brihaaranyaka Upanishad 1.3.28

Universal Principle of Reciprocal RelationsUniversal Principle of Reciprocal RelationsHuman beings—just as all creatures and all things—are not made to exist or live alone, i l t d l t l i d d t I t d isolated or completely independent. Instead, they are configured by nature or by God to maintain multiple physiological interactions

Principle of InteractionPrinciple of Interaction

within themselves and with their environment. Therefore, we establish—in voluntary, responsible and creative forms—a series of

Action of Giving and ReceivingAction of Giving and ReceivingSubject Subject

llObject Object

llp

fluid, harmonious, and stable relationships in which we reciprocally exchange love, affection, care, ideas, knowledge, goods, and services

rolerole rolerole

, , g , g ,with other human beings and other creatures. This is vital for the preservation of our existence, multiplication, the development of , p , pour character, the cultivation of our talents, and our ability to experience the highest degree of joy and shared happiness.

ExistenceExistenceActionAction

ReproductionReproduction joy and shared happiness.(Dr. Miguel Angel Cano (Dr. Miguel Angel Cano –– Ethics and Peace)Ethics and Peace)

pp

Natural Law of Karma Natural Law of Karma -- Cosmic JusticeCosmic JusticeJudaism:Judaism: “I the Lord search the mind and try the heart, to give to every man “I the Lord search the mind and try the heart, to give to every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.” according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.” Jeremiah 17:10Jeremiah 17:10Christianity:Christianity: “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” Galatians 6:7Galatians 6:7Islam:Islam: “Whatever affliction may visit you is for what your own hands have “Whatever affliction may visit you is for what your own hands have earned ” earned ” Qur’an 42:30Qur’an 42:30earned. earned. Qur an 42:30Qur an 42:30Hinduism:Hinduism: “Unrighteousness, practiced n this world, does not at once “Unrighteousness, practiced n this world, does not at once produce its fruit; but, like a cow, advancing slowly, it cuts off the roots of produce its fruit; but, like a cow, advancing slowly, it cuts off the roots of hi h itt d it ” hi h itt d it ” L f M 4 1 2L f M 4 1 2him who committed it.” him who committed it.” Laws of Manu 4:172Laws of Manu 4:172Buddhism: Buddhism: “An ignorant man committing evil deeds does not realize the “An ignorant man committing evil deeds does not realize the consequences. The imprudent man is consume by his own deeds, like one consequences. The imprudent man is consume by his own deeds, like one consequences. The imprudent man is consume by his own deeds, like one consequences. The imprudent man is consume by his own deeds, like one burnt by a fire.” burnt by a fire.” Dhammapada 136Dhammapada 136Taoism:Taoism: “In heaven and earth there are spirits that take account of men’s “In heaven and earth there are spirits that take account of men’s transgressions and according to the lightness or gravity of their offenses transgressions and according to the lightness or gravity of their offenses transgressions, and, according to the lightness or gravity of their offenses, transgressions, and, according to the lightness or gravity of their offenses, take away from the term of their life.” take away from the term of their life.” Treatise on Response and Retribution 1Treatise on Response and Retribution 1--22African Traditional Religions:African Traditional Religions: “Ashes fly back in the face of him who throws “Ashes fly back in the face of him who throws gg yythem.” them.” Yoruba proverb (Nigeria)Yoruba proverb (Nigeria)

Moral Law Expressed in Religious CodesMoral Law Expressed in Religious Codes

4 l hibiti 4 l hibiti Don’t rob Don’t rob 4 general prohibitions: 4 general prohibitions: •• Don’t rob. Don’t rob. •• Don’t lie. Don’t lie. •• Don’t kill. Don’t kill.

D ’t h illi it l l tiD ’t h illi it l l ti•• Don’t have illicit sexual relations.Don’t have illicit sexual relations.

PeoplePeople These pre ent bad interactionsThese pre ent bad interactionsPeoplePeoplePeoplePeople These prevent bad interactionsThese prevent bad interactionsPeoplePeople

Judaism and Christianity:Judaism and Christianity: 10 Commandments 10 Commandments (Exodus 20:1(Exodus 20:1--17)17)Islam:Islam: Sacred duties Sacred duties (Qur’an 6:151(Qur’an 6:151--53)53)(Q(Q ))Hinduism:Hinduism: Universally applicable dharma Universally applicable dharma (Laws of Manu)(Laws of Manu)Buddhism:Buddhism: Five Precepts Five Precepts (Nagarjuna Precious Garland 809)(Nagarjuna Precious Garland 809)Buddhism:Buddhism: Five Precepts Five Precepts (Nagarjuna, Precious Garland 809)(Nagarjuna, Precious Garland 809)

Justice and Reciprocity in Both Natural Law and Moral LawJustice and Reciprocity in Both Natural Law and Moral Law

Judaism:Judaism: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with thy God.” “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with thy God.” Micah 6:8Micah 6:8JusticeJustice

Islam:Islam: “Stand out firmly for justice.” “Stand out firmly for justice.” Qur’an 4:135Qur’an 4:135Confucianism:Confucianism: “Recompense injury with justice, and recompense kindness with “Recompense injury with justice, and recompense kindness with kindness ” kindness ” Analects 14:36Analects 14:36kindness. kindness. Analects 14:36Analects 14:36

ReciprocityReciprocityHinduism:Hinduism: “According as one conducts himself, so does he become.” “According as one conducts himself, so does he become.” (Brihadaranyaka (Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 4.4.5Upanishad 4.4.5Buddhism:Buddhism: “According to what deeds are done do their resulting consequences come “According to what deeds are done do their resulting consequences come Buddhism:Buddhism: According to what deeds are done, do their resulting consequences come According to what deeds are done, do their resulting consequences come to be.” to be.” Garland Sutra 10Garland Sutra 10

P l P l People People People People FamiliesFamilies

Communities Communities NationsNations

People People FamiliesFamilies


G ld R l G ld R l T t th i h th t t t T t th i h th t t t Expressed in the Golden RuleExpressed in the Golden Rule

Golden Rule Golden Rule -- Treat others as you wish them to treat youTreat others as you wish them to treat you..Christianity:Christianity: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." (“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." (Matthew 7:12Matthew 7:12))I lI lIslam:Islam: “No one is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he desires for “No one is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he desires for

himself.” (himself.” (SunnahSunnah))African Traditional Religions:African Traditional Religions: “What you give “What you give -- or do or do -- to others, they will give to others, they will give -- or do or do --gg y gy g , y g, y g

to you." (to you." (Rwandan proverbRwandan proverb))

Silver Rule Silver Rule -- Don’t do to others what you don’t want them to do to you.Don’t do to others what you don’t want them to do to you.Hinduism:Hinduism: “This is the sum of duty: Do “This is the sum of duty: Do naughtnaught unto others which would cause you pain unto others which would cause you pain

if done to you." (if done to you." (Mahabharata 5:15, 17Mahabharata 5:15, 17).).Buddhism:Buddhism: ““HurtHurt notnot others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful " others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful " ((UdUd 5 18 5 18))Buddhism:Buddhism: ““HurtHurt notnot others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful. others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful. ((UdanaUdana--varga 5:18varga 5:18))

Confucianism:Confucianism: “Surely it is the maxim of loving kindness: Do “Surely it is the maxim of loving kindness: Do notnot unto others what you unto others what you would not have them do to you." (would not have them do to you." (Analects 15:23Analects 15:23))would not have them do to you. (would not have them do to you. (Analects 15:23Analects 15:23))

Judaism:Judaism: ”What is hateful to you, do ”What is hateful to you, do not not do to your fellow man. That is the entire Law; all do to your fellow man. That is the entire Law; all the rest is commentary." (the rest is commentary." (Talmud, Shabbat 31aTalmud, Shabbat 31a))

God is the source of love life and peace Those who promote conflict hatred violence God is the source of love life and peace Those who promote conflict hatred violence God is the source of love, life and peace… Those who promote conflict, hatred, violence God is the source of love, life and peace… Those who promote conflict, hatred, violence and terrorism have to be informed that to the extent to which they do that, to that extent and terrorism have to be informed that to the extent to which they do that, to that extent

they are not good members of any religion. they are not good members of any religion. ((Cardinal Francis Arinze Cardinal Francis Arinze -- Assisi Assisi -- January 24, 2002January 24, 2002))

Benefits of Living by the Moral LawBenefits of Living by the Moral LawJudaism:Judaism: “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul.” “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul.” Psalm 19:7Psalm 19:7Ch i ti itCh i ti it “H h l k i t th f t l th l f lib t “H h l k i t th f t l th l f lib t Christianity:Christianity: “He who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, “He who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being o hearer that forgets but a doer that acts, he and perseveres, being o hearer that forgets but a doer that acts, he shall be blessed in his doing.” shall be blessed in his doing.” James 1:25James 1:25I lI lIslam:Islam: “Let there arise out of you a group of people, inviting to all “Let there arise out of you a group of people, inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong.” that is good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong.” Qur’an 3:104Qur’an 3:104Hi d iHi d iHinduism:Hinduism: “Those who live in accordance with the divine laws “Those who live in accordance with the divine laws without complaining, firmly established in faith, are released from without complaining, firmly established in faith, are released from karma.” karma.” Bhagavad Gita 3.31Bhagavad Gita 3.31Buddhism:Buddhism: “He who loves Dhamma progresses, he who hates it “He who loves Dhamma progresses, he who hates it declines.” declines.” (Sutta Nipata 92)(Sutta Nipata 92)Confucianism:Confucianism: “The moral man’s life is an exemplification of the “The moral man’s life is an exemplification of the Confucianism:Confucianism: The moral man s life is an exemplification of the The moral man s life is an exemplification of the universal order, because he is a moral person who unceasingly universal order, because he is a moral person who unceasingly cultivates his true self or moral being.” cultivates his true self or moral being.” Doctrine of the Mean 2Doctrine of the Mean 2Taoism:Taoism: “What the Tao plants cannot be plucked, what Tao clasps “What the Tao plants cannot be plucked, what Tao clasps Taoism:Taoism: What the Tao plants cannot be plucked, what Tao clasps What the Tao plants cannot be plucked, what Tao clasps cannot slip.” cannot slip.” Tao Te Ching 54Tao Te Ching 54

Principle of Development Through Cooperation Principle of Development Through Cooperation Centered on a Common PurposeCentered on a Common Purpose

The progress or development of humanityThe progress or development of humanity——whether economic, scientific, technical, whether economic, scientific, technical, artistic, or socialartistic, or social——produces principally, by means of communication, understanding, produces principally, by means of communication, understanding,

Ce te ed o a Co o u poseCe te ed o a Co o u pose

,, p p p y, y , g,p p p y, y , g,dialogue, or consensus, a harmonious cooperation and mutual interdependence among dialogue, or consensus, a harmonious cooperation and mutual interdependence among individuals, families, communities, nations and civilizations, centered on common individuals, families, communities, nations and civilizations, centered on common purposes and shared goals, and not by means of fighting, conflict, or mutual purposes and shared goals, and not by means of fighting, conflict, or mutual destruction destruction

Hi h Hi h

destruction. destruction.

Common purpose Common purpose -- shared goalsshared goalsHigh High

purpose,purpose,mutual mutual benefitbenefit

PeoplePeople People People PeoplePeopleFamiliesFamilies


People People FamiliesFamilies


Progress is based on ethical interaction.Progress is based on ethical interaction.

COOPERATIONCOOPERATIONJudaismJudaism: : ““All God's creatures borrow from the other, yet make peace with All God's creatures borrow from the other, yet make peace with one another without lawsuits.” one another without lawsuits.” Midrash, Exodus Rabbah 31.154Midrash, Exodus Rabbah 31.154

Christianity:Christianity: “We are members one of another.” “We are members one of another.” Ephesians 4.255Ephesians 4.255

IslamIslam:: ““Abu Musa narrated that the Prophet said, Abu Musa narrated that the Prophet said, ‘‘AA believer to another believer to another IslamIslam:: Abu Musa narrated that the Prophet said, Abu Musa narrated that the Prophet said, AA believer to another believer to another believer is like a building whose different parts enforce each other.’”believer is like a building whose different parts enforce each other.’” Hadith of Hadith of Bukhari 8:55Bukhari 8:55

B ddhiB ddhi ““It i t diffi lt t It i t diffi lt t tth t b d i l th t f th i h t b d i l th t f th i BuddhismBuddhism:: ““It is not difficult to seeIt is not difficult to see tthat my body is also that of others in hat my body is also that of others in the same way as the hands and so forththe same way as the hands and so forth aare regarded as limbs of the body,re regarded as limbs of the body,” ” Shantideva, Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life 8.112Shantideva, Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life 8.112--167.167.

TaoismTaoism:: ““Everything has its ‘that’; everything has its ‘this’. From the point Everything has its ‘that’; everything has its ‘this’. From the point of view of ‘that’ you cannot see it, but through understanding you can know of view of ‘that’ you cannot see it, but through understanding you can know it So I say ‘that’ comes out of ‘this’ and ‘this’ depends on ‘that’it So I say ‘that’ comes out of ‘this’ and ‘this’ depends on ‘that’ which is to which is to it. So I say, that comes out of this and this depends on thatit. So I say, that comes out of this and this depends on that ----which is to which is to say that ‘this’ and ‘that’ give birth to each othersay that ‘this’ and ‘that’ give birth to each other.. A state in which ‘this’ and A state in which ‘this’ and ‘that’ no longer find their opposites is called the Hinge of the Way. When the ‘that’ no longer find their opposites is called the Hinge of the Way. When the hinge is fitted into the socket it can respond endlessly ” hinge is fitted into the socket it can respond endlessly ” Ch T 2Ch T 2hinge is fitted into the socket, it can respond endlessly.” hinge is fitted into the socket, it can respond endlessly.” Chuang Tzu 2Chuang Tzu 2

Serving the Common GoodServing the Common Good

Highest valueHighest valueLiving for OthersLiving for Others

WorldWorld

GodGod

SaintsSaints

Divine childrenDivine children

Your nationYour nation

WorldWorld

Li i fLi i fPatriotsPatriots

SaintsSaints

Your communityYour communityLiving for…Living for…

LeadersLeaders

Your familyYour family ParentsParents

PeoplePeople Only for yourselfOnly for yourself SelfSelf--centeredcentered Little valueLittle value

“ h h i h t b t l t hi b t th S f “ h h i h t b t l t hi b t th S f “…he who wishes to be great among let him be a servant… the Son of man “…he who wishes to be great among let him be a servant… the Son of man came not to be served but to serve…” came not to be served but to serve…” (Matthew 20: 26(Matthew 20: 26--28)28)

SERVING THE COMMON GOODSERVING THE COMMON GOODIslam:Islam: “Th i t f b t h hi i t d iti d “Th i t f b t h hi i t d iti d Islam:Islam: “There is not one of us but has his appointed position, and we are “There is not one of us but has his appointed position, and we are verily ranged in ranks [for service].” verily ranged in ranks [for service].” Qur’an 37:164Qur’an 37:164--6565Hinduism: Hinduism: “Strive constantly to serve the welfare of the world; by devotion to “Strive constantly to serve the welfare of the world; by devotion to Hinduism: Hinduism: Strive constantly to serve the welfare of the world; by devotion to Strive constantly to serve the welfare of the world; by devotion to selfless work one attains the supreme goal in life.” selfless work one attains the supreme goal in life.” Bhagavad Gita 3:23Bhagavad Gita 3:23Confucianism:Confucianism: When the Great Tao prevailed, the world was a When the Great Tao prevailed, the world was a

lth f t l t d i t l t d t l fid lth f t l t d i t l t d t l fid commonwealth; men of talent and virtue were selected, mutual confidence commonwealth; men of talent and virtue were selected, mutual confidence was emphasized, and brotherhood was cultivated. Therefore, men did not was emphasized, and brotherhood was cultivated. Therefore, men did not regard as parents only their own parents, nor did they treat as sons only their regard as parents only their own parents, nor did they treat as sons only their

Old l bl t j th i ld bl Old l bl t j th i ld bl own sons. Old people were able to enjoy their old age; young men were able own sons. Old people were able to enjoy their old age; young men were able to employ their talents….They hated not to use their energies, and they used to employ their talents….They hated not to use their energies, and they used their energies not for their own benefit.” their energies not for their own benefit.” Book of Ritual 7:1.2Book of Ritual 7:1.2Judaism:Judaism: “I am God’s creature and my peasant neighbor is God’s creature. My “I am God’s creature and my peasant neighbor is God’s creature. My work is in the town and his work is in the country. I rise early for my work and work is in the town and his work is in the country. I rise early for my work and he rises early for his work ” he rises early for his work ” Talmud Berakot 17aTalmud Berakot 17ahe rises early for his work. he rises early for his work. Talmud. Berakot 17aTalmud. Berakot 17aChristianity: Christianity: “Let no one seek his own good but the good of his neighbor.” “Let no one seek his own good but the good of his neighbor.” 1 Corinthians 10:241 Corinthians 10:24Af i T di i l R li iAf i T di i l R li i “G di hi i t t i d b t t i “G di hi i t t i d b t t i African Traditional Religions:African Traditional Religions: “Guardianship is not to give an order but to give “Guardianship is not to give an order but to give one’s self.” one’s self.” Nyika Proverb (Kenya and Tanzania)Nyika Proverb (Kenya and Tanzania)

Integrative Perspective of Human RightsIntegrative Perspective of Human Rights

Both decreed by law and Both decreed by law and Both decreed by law and Both decreed by law and endowed by our creatorendowed by our creator

Both guided by natural law Both guided by natural law and moral lawand moral lawand moral lawand moral law

Rooted in both brotherly Rooted in both brotherly Rooted in both brotherly Rooted in both brotherly goodwill and parental heartgoodwill and parental heart

Principles for Securing Peace and Human RightsPrinciples for Securing Peace and Human Rights

1.1. Promote the common goodPromote the common good by living for by living for the sake of othersthe sake of others

2.2. Uphold the family as the school of love Uphold the family as the school of love and peace and peace protecting family valuesprotecting family valuesand peace, and peace, protecting family values.protecting family values.

3.3. Promote Promote understanding, respect, and understanding, respect, and GODGOD

cooperationcooperation among people of different among people of different religions, cultures, and nations.religions, cultures, and nations.

4.4. Promote spiritual, moral, and unifying Promote spiritual, moral, and unifying leadership based on universal values.leadership based on universal values.

Principles for Life Principles for Life and Governance

Principles for Life and Governance

Our Creator is invisible and intangible but as the Our Creator is invisible and intangible but as the Our Creator is invisible and intangible, but as the Our Creator is invisible and intangible, but as the Loving Cosmic Parent emerges and guides us Loving Cosmic Parent emerges and guides us throughout our throughout our CONSCIENCECONSCIENCE. .

Our inner peace requires an honest, transparent and Our inner peace requires an honest, transparent and good life in the presence of God and our forefathers good life in the presence of God and our forefathers g pg pin the Spiritual World which observe our conduct. in the Spiritual World which observe our conduct.

Conscience is our guide to truth and transcendent Conscience is our guide to truth and transcendent Conscience is our guide to truth and transcendent Conscience is our guide to truth and transcendent values, point of reference and highest authority which values, point of reference and highest authority which preside over our lives.preside over our lives.

http://principioshttp://principios--vida.blogspot.com/vida.blogspot.com/

Lead a transparent life with your every action being as clear as a crystalLead a transparent life with your every action being as clear as a crystal

RIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIESRIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIESAs persons and families, we have inalienable, ineludible and As persons and families, we have inalienable, ineludible and unrenounceable unrenounceable rightsrights and obligations endowed by God to:and obligations endowed by God to:

1.1. Govern the world by our conscience, Govern the world by our conscience, d d t l lt l l if ti if ti reason and reason and natural lawnatural law manifesting a manifesting a

transparent lifetransparent life..

2.2. Create true families based on Create true families based on absolute absolute sexual ethicssexual ethics and and intercultural intercultural marriagesmarriagesmarriagesmarriages..

3.3. Love and preserveLove and preserve the natural and the natural and 3.3. Love and preserveLove and preserve the natural and the natural and spiritual environment.spiritual environment.

The divine right to govern is invested in The divine right to govern is invested in the sovereign authority of each person and family.the sovereign authority of each person and family.

Each person’s equalityEach person’s equality with others only takes place in three aspects:with others only takes place in three aspects:p q yp q y y p py p p

1.1. We are equal in dignity and value in We are equal in dignity and value in front of the eyes of God,front of the eyes of God,

22 B f th lB f th l2.2. Before the law,Before the law,3.3. And in the protection of our rights.And in the protection of our rights.

The proper role of any government is to protect The proper role of any government is to protect and guaranty EQUAL RIGHTS, not provide equal and guaranty EQUAL RIGHTS, not provide equal g y , p qg y , p qthings.things.

Once property rights are secure, Once property rights are secure, it will be possible to protect life and freedomit will be possible to protect life and freedomit will be possible to protect life and freedom.it will be possible to protect life and freedom.

Property rights are part of the natural orderProperty rights are part of the natural order

109. 109. There is no reason for such a doubt to persist. There is no reason for such a doubt to persist. The The right of private ownershipright of private ownership of goods including productive of goods including productive right of private ownershipright of private ownership of goods, including productive of goods, including productive goods, has permanent validitygoods, has permanent validity. . It is part of It is part of the natural orderthe natural order, , which teaches that the individual is prior to society and which teaches that the individual is prior to society and society must be ordered to the good of the individual.society must be ordered to the good of the individual.y gy g

Moreover, it would be quite useless to insist on free and Moreover, it would be quite useless to insist on free and personal initiative in the economic field, while at the same personal initiative in the economic field, while at the same time withdrawing man's right to dispose freely of the means time withdrawing man's right to dispose freely of the means time withdrawing man s right to dispose freely of the means time withdrawing man s right to dispose freely of the means indispensable to the achievement of such initiative.indispensable to the achievement of such initiative.

Further, history and experience testify that in those political Further, history and experience testify that in those political ffregimes which do not recognize the rights of private regimes which do not recognize the rights of private

ownership of goods, productive included, the exercise of ownership of goods, productive included, the exercise of freedom in almost every other direction is suppressed or freedom in almost every other direction is suppressed or stifled This suggests surely that stifled This suggests surely that the exercise of freedom the exercise of freedom stifled. This suggests, surely, that stifled. This suggests, surely, that the exercise of freedom the exercise of freedom finds its guarantee and incentive in the right of ownership.finds its guarantee and incentive in the right of ownership.

ENCYCLICALENCYCLICAL MATER ET MAGISTRA MATER ET MAGISTRA -- JOHN XXIIIJOHN XXIII

FREE MARKET d COMMONWEALTHFREE MARKET d COMMONWEALTHFREE MARKET and COMMONWEALTHFREE MARKET and COMMONWEALTH

The highest human level of prosperity occurs when there is a free market The highest human level of prosperity occurs when there is a free market economy and it is favored a policy of a minimum of government economy and it is favored a policy of a minimum of government

l til tiregulations.regulations.

Governments are elect to serve the public interest and the power or Governments are elect to serve the public interest and the power or delegated authority entrusted to them should be limited and defined with delegated authority entrusted to them should be limited and defined with clarity because the true sovereignty belongs to each person and their clarity because the true sovereignty belongs to each person and their clarity, because the true sovereignty belongs to each person and their clarity, because the true sovereignty belongs to each person and their families. Every government should be transparent and has the obligation families. Every government should be transparent and has the obligation to be accountable to the people they served.to be accountable to the people they served.

The philosophy of governance for peace The philosophy of governance for peace is rooted in three core, moral principles:is rooted in three core, moral principles:p pp p

1.1. A true leader or A true leader or true parenttrue parent must maintain strict standards of must maintain strict standards of purity and fidelity. That is, the love, life and lineage made purity and fidelity. That is, the love, life and lineage made sacred through marriage should never be violated. sacred through marriage should never be violated. The The proper governance of ones sexual organ which is the key to proper governance of ones sexual organ which is the key to proper governance of ones sexual organ, which is the key to proper governance of ones sexual organ, which is the key to maintaining the integrity of the family, is the foundation of maintaining the integrity of the family, is the foundation of good governance.good governance.

2. A true leader and 2. A true leader and true teachertrue teacher must care for all persons within must care for all persons within his or her realm of governance as a loving parent would care his or her realm of governance as a loving parent would care for his or her children. That is, for his or her children. That is, the full value, integrity, and the full value, integrity, and aspirations of all human beings must be respected The rights aspirations of all human beings must be respected The rights aspirations of all human beings must be respected. The rights aspirations of all human beings must be respected. The rights of any person should never be violated. The heart of others of any person should never be violated. The heart of others should never be hurt by careless actions.should never be hurt by careless actions.

3. A true leader or a 3. A true leader or a true ownertrue owner never misuses public money or never misuses public money or material things, but always serves the well being of the whole.material things, but always serves the well being of the whole.

Th b i i i lTh b i i i lThree basic principlesThree basic principlesfor morality and governance:for morality and governance:

Absolute honesty,Absolute honesty,Absolute sexual purity,Absolute sexual purity,Ab l t iAb l t iAbsolute service.Absolute service.

Three Immutable Laws:Three Immutable Laws:Three Immutable Laws:Three Immutable Laws:

Holding purity and absolute sexual fidelityHolding purity and absolute sexual fidelityDo not wound the heart of othersDo not wound the heart of othersDo not wound the heart of othersDo not wound the heart of othersDo not misuse public money or propertyDo not misuse public money or property

If you violate these laws or principles you will If you violate these laws or principles you will If you violate these laws or principles you will If you violate these laws or principles you will always pay for it. Justice is blind and nobody always pay for it. Justice is blind and nobody is above the universal law.is above the universal law.

PURITY and FIDELITY = GOOD FAMILIESPURITY and FIDELITY = GOOD FAMILIES

Sexual purity, purity of lineage and purity of love will be the educational Sexual purity, purity of lineage and purity of love will be the educational philosophy of the human racephilosophy of the human race

Preserve and love the natural worldPreserve and love the natural world

Sustainable developmentSustainable development

God created us as His children and to be the lords of God created us as His children and to be the lords of CONSCIENCECONSCIENCE God created us as His children and to be the lords of God created us as His children and to be the lords of creation. To this end, He gave each of us the highest and creation. To this end, He gave each of us the highest and greatest giftgreatest gift--a a conscienceconscience.. This special gift of a conscience This special gift of a conscience is given to us as is given to us as a compass to guide us through lifea compass to guide us through life in this in this

CONSCIENCECONSCIENCEFather, Teacher and True

So ereign gg p g gp g gearthly world. We can say that our lifespan may be one earthly world. We can say that our lifespan may be one hundred years. ... hundred years. ...

The most elevated function of the conscience is its role as The most elevated function of the conscience is its role as N

Sovereign

The most elevated function of the conscience is its role as The most elevated function of the conscience is its role as our true parent, true teacher and true owner.our true parent, true teacher and true owner. In other words, In other words, our conscience acts as a true parent, true teacher and true our conscience acts as a true parent, true teacher and true owner on behalf of God, guiding our lives and educating us owner on behalf of God, guiding our lives and educating us

N

EWg g gg g g

from the time we are born. from the time we are born.

Our conscience functions as a guide, keeping watch over Our conscience functions as a guide, keeping watch over our every action at every momentour every action at every moment It is aware of our every It is aware of our every

EW

our every action at every moment.our every action at every moment. It is aware of our every It is aware of our every word, thought and deed even before our parents, our word, thought and deed even before our parents, our teachers or God are. God infused into the conscience the teachers or God are. God infused into the conscience the fundamental function of guiding and supervising our lives.fundamental function of guiding and supervising our lives.

S

Compass to guide us Compass to guide us through lifethrough life (The Three Great Subject Partners Principle from the Viewpoint (The Three Great Subject Partners Principle from the Viewpoint

of God's Providenceof God's Providence-- Peace Message No. 15 Peace Message No. 15 -- July 4, 2007)July 4, 2007)

THE LAW EMBEDDEDTHE LAW EMBEDDED IN OUR HEART and CONSCIENCEIN OUR HEART and CONSCIENCE

… a world governed by our conscience and natural reason… a world governed by our conscience and natural reason (SMM)(SMM)

“…“…I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you;I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my d d b f l t k l ”d d b f l t k l ” (E ki l 36 26(E ki l 36 26 27)27)decrees and be careful to keep my laws.”decrees and be careful to keep my laws.” (Ezekiel 36:26(Ezekiel 36:26--27)27)

““I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their heartshearts I will be their God and they will be my people No I will be their God and they will be my people No hearts.hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will they teach their neighbors, or say to one another, longer will they teach their neighbors, or say to one another, 'Know the Lord,' because they will all know me, from the least 'Know the Lord,' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will forgive their wickedness and of them to the greatest. For I will forgive their wickedness and

ill b th i i ”ill b th i i ” (J i h 31 33(J i h 31 33 34 34 will remember their sins no more.”will remember their sins no more.” (Jeremiah 31:33(Jeremiah 31:33--34 34 --Hebrews 8: 10Hebrews 8: 10--1212 ))

““The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just. speak what is just. The law of their God is in their heartsThe law of their God is in their hearts; their ; their feet do not slip.” feet do not slip.” (Psalm 37:30(Psalm 37:30--31)31)

THANK YOU VERY MUCH THANK YOU VERY MUCH THANK YOU VERY MUCH …THANK YOU VERY MUCH …

The author, The author, The author, The author, Jesus Gonzalez LosadaJesus Gonzalez Losada gives the gives the permission of reproduction permission of reproduction p pp pspecifically, always under the specifically, always under the premises in good faith, good end, premises in good faith, good end,

t it d ti th t it d ti th gratuitousness and quoting the gratuitousness and quoting the sources.sources.

htt //jhtt //j ll l d bl t /l d bl t /http://jesushttp://jesus--gonzalezgonzalez--losada.blogspot.com/losada.blogspot.com/

UNIVERSAL ETHICAL PRINCIPLES as FOUNDATIONS for HUMAN … · Debates within the Commission on Human...

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