Lunch ‘N’ Learn with Frances Bottenberg

On the Uses and Abuses of ‘Dignity’ in Talk About Aging: A Philosophical Conversation

Join Dr. Frances Bottenberg, Lecturer in Philosophy, for a thought-provoking hour in which we examine the concept of human dignity together. What does the concept refer to? And how is it used in conversations about aging? These are not easy questions to answer, especially because there are several conflicting schools of thought concerning just what the idea of human dignity refers to – or what it should refer to. For example, some think that “dignity” refers to the intrinsic worth that every human being possesses, regardless of circumstance. For others, it is just another word for autonomy or independence. Still others think that dignity pertains to the ability to reason in a self-aware way – which is an ability that may not be accessible to the severely cognitively disabled. And finally, some think that dignity is about character or even a style of acting – after all, it’s common to hear phrases such as “dignified aging,” “living with dignity” and even “dying with dignity” crop up when stakeholders discuss aging as well as end-of-life care. Does this confusion suggest we should just stop using the term altogether? Are there other concepts and words that do a better job describing what really matters when it comes to people helping each other flourish? We’ll reflect on these questions together in this lunch-time session.

Seating is limited.
To RSVP, click here!
RSVP by October 31st to have lunch provided.