Human dignity and education – a Protestant view

Abstract

Prof. Dr Friedrich Schweitzer
 is participating in the
 research project ‘Gender
 Studies and Practical
 Theology Theory Formation’,
 directed by Prof. Dr Yolanda
 Dreyer, Department of
 Practical Theology, Faculty of
 Theology, University of
 Pretoria, South Africa.

Taking current discussions on the relationship between human dignity as a human right and
 education as his starting point the author pursues the possibility of interpreting this relationship
 from a Protestant perspective based on the biblical understanding of the likeness of God. Since
 this understanding has not been at the centre of the majority view in Protestant educational
 thinking the author tries to uncover a minority tradition that has made the likeness of God the
 basis of education (Melanchthon, Comenius, and others). In another step, the author describes
 four foundational perspectives for making the likeness of God and human dignity the basis for
 education today, addressing education beyond utilitarianism, justice in education and
 education for justice, interreligious education and special commitment to children’s rights. In
 all four respects Protestantism can make important contributions but there is also a need for
 the renewal of Protestantism’s understanding of education in light of future challenges.

http://www.hts.org.za

am2016

Practical Theology