Hannah Erika L.

Guerra

Human Being as Social Being

Humans are constantly obliged to communicate with God and other animals. His
presence among us would serve as a reminder to us not to believe that we, as people, are
self-sufficient and autonomous. This is known as selfishness. A self-made man or woman is
frequently despondent, unfree, chained by despair, and arrogant.
However, Jesus Christ has saved everyone, without exception. Even if the individual
is not aware of it, he is unified within us (Redemptor Hominis).

Human Being as Free and Responsible

Humans have the capacity to act on their own judgments. We embrace this freedom
as it is motivated by a feeling of responsibility rather than concern (Dignitates Humanae).
Freedom is an exceptional sign of God’s presence and purpose within us (Gaudium et Spes).
There are two concepts within this topic: freedom from, and freedom for.
Freedom from. With rationality, humans are aware of the intrinsic value of freedom
if we are coerced into something. Humans will desire to be free of any oppressive forces, to
escape any negative influence from their free will.
Freedom for. People are able to determine their own life without any unnecessary
external restrictions. We are able to direct ourselves towards our ideals with the exercise
of responsible freedom, achieving purpose of freedom, righteousness.

Human Being as Imago Dei

We are all created in the image and likeness of God. We must recognize the
distinctive characteristics of human nature that allow God to emerge in humans. Man was
created in the image of God, according to Genesis 1:27. We do not inherit God's human
form, but rather His morals and intellectual character. We are made in the image of God in
these aspects.