Last year, we launched a new series called What Do We Mean By? where host Lillian Koizumi unpacks different concepts we explore and practice at the Ikeda Center. All of these concepts are informed by the philosophy of our late founder Daisaku Ikeda. In this episode, Lillian unpacks the concept of dignity. She also invites Ikeda Center’s Outreach Manager Anri Khare to share her thoughts on dignity and examples of how she’s applying and practicing dignity in her own life.

For more information on dignity, click here.

Read our interview with Dr. Donna Hicks.

Quotes from Daisaku Ikeda shared in the episode: 

“The foundation of a culture of human rights is established when we can develop an empathetic openness toward the sufferings of others, feeling their pain as our own, and when we can ceaselessly strive to bring out our “best self,” to behave at all times and in all situations in a manner that we can proudly affirm.” (“Learning About Dignity,” The Japan Times, Dec. 23, 2011) 

“If we picture a global society of peace and coexistence as an edifice, the ideals of human rights and human security are key pillars that hold it up, while the foundation on which these rest is respect for the dignity of life. If this foundation remains no more than an abstract conceptualization, the entire structure will be unstable and could collapse in the event of a severe challenge or crisis.” (2013 Peace Proposal)

“…recognizing the dignity of the individual must result in mutual recognition and respect.” (A Dialogue between East and West: Looking to a Human Revolution)

Music attribution: 

Podcast Music

“Space”

Podington Bear

Soundofpicture.com

To learn more about the Ikeda Center, visit ikedacenter.org or email us at [email protected]