Karl Thomas M Olivar

1C
Consti Law 1

A Reaction Paper on Dignity and the Legal Profession by Atty. Evangeline S. Sarda

Often times we think we know exactly the meaning of a word but when we apply it,
even in its broadest sense, for whatever reason we do not know, it seems wanting.
Dignity as defined in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary is the quality of being worthy of
honor and respect. Its concept and application has been widespread in the world.
Non-government organization such as the Global Dignity has dedicated its existence in
empowering the dignity of every people. Its mission is to implement the universal right of every
human being to lead a dignified life.
Such organization, I think, is essential especially in our times where everyone seems to
have taken for granted the importance of dignity, and where everyone seems to have lost it.
According to Professor Sarda, dignity is intrinsic which means it is something inherent in
every one of us, we do not share it, and it is not dependent on others; and I agree. It may be
decreased, however, it cannot disappear.
I also think that dignity, in itself, is broad in the sense that it encompasses not only the
self-respect of the person but his whole identity.
The History of dignity as a legal concept has been in existence since the 19
th
century. It
has been used in the constitution of different countries including ours, fundamental rights and
declarations. Dignity is hard, if not impossible, to define. It is ambiguous. However, the
ambiguity of the term makes it more pertinent in the legal world. By applying an ambiguous
term such as dignity in the law makes the latter more comprehensive and inclusive.
According to the speaker by making the law more human enhances dignity and by
understanding how you connect with other people is the key to dignity.
I agree with her, because I think that increasing the dignity of others through the law or
righteous actions, we also increase and empower our own dignity; we make dignity, presumed
to be abstract, real.