The first chapter of Book I: The Ethical Architect, part of the series The Architecture of Discernment by Greg Twemlow, introduces the Human First Principle as the fundamental guide for designing systems in an age dominated by artificial intelligence. The author argues that technology, particularly AI, is actively shaping human experience and that a failure to prioritise human dignity in design leads to the subtle erosion of humanity's value. Building ethically requires a slower pace, transparency, and acknowledging complexity, ensuring systems recognise and respect individuals rather than simply optimising for efficiency. Ultimately, placing the human at the centre of design is presented as a civilisational necessity for building systems worth inheriting. Read the article.