This contribution explores the role of human dignity in the constitutional system of the Netherlands. In what way are human dignity-related norms part of the constitutional framework? Is there a... Show moreThis contribution explores the role of human dignity in the constitutional system of the Netherlands. In what way are human dignity-related norms part of the constitutional framework? Is there a role for human dignity besides the human rights standards that are enshrined in the Dutch constitution? And if so, what is its legal status? Can human dignity norms be invoked before Dutch courts? In order to shed some light on these questions, the author first investigates the text of the Dutch Constitution as well as Dutch constitutional history and tradition (§ 1). In the second phase of the investigation, he discusses some recent proposals for constitutional amendments in which human dignity was a key factor (§ 2). After that, he inquires whether human dignity is referred to in ordinary legislation (§ 3) and in case law of the Dutch courts (§ 4). In § 5, the author summarises his findings. Show less
The book The United Nations, the Evolution of Global Values and International Law by Otto Spijkers describes how moral values have determined the founding of the United Nations Organization in 1945... Show moreThe book The United Nations, the Evolution of Global Values and International Law by Otto Spijkers describes how moral values have determined the founding of the United Nations Organization in 1945 and the evolution of its purposes, principles and policies since then. A detailed examination of the proceedings of the United Nations Conference on International Organization in San Francisco demonstrates that the drafting of the United Nations Charter was significantly influenced by global moral values, i.e. globally shared beliefs distinguishing right from wrong, good from bad, and the current from a preferable state-of-the-world. A common desire to eradicate war, poverty, inhuman treatment, and to halt the exploitation of peoples, has led to an affirmation of the values of peace and security, social progress and development, human dignity and the self-determination of all peoples. All these values ended up in the UN Charter. The book further analyzes how the United Nations, and especially its General Assembly, has continued to influence the maturing of global morality through contributions to the values-debate, and to the translation of these values into the language of international law, including the law on the use of force, sustainable development, human rights and the right to self-determination. Show less
Bal tashchit is possibly the most important religious principle directly relating to the relationship between man and his environment. This thesis attempts to answer three basic questions: 1) what... Show moreBal tashchit is possibly the most important religious principle directly relating to the relationship between man and his environment. This thesis attempts to answer three basic questions: 1) what exactly is bal tashchit? 2) How might a principle of bal tashchit be applied to current environmental problems? 3) What contributions might the principle of bal tashchit make to the world? This thesis examines the classic texts in the Jewish tradition from which bal tashchit is derived, including the source-text (Deuteronomy 20:19-20), which contains important symbolism concerning the relationship between man and his environment. From these texts is developed a principle of bal tashchit which places a great deal of importance on the intellectual and moral-ethical development of man as key factors in the proper management of the natural environment. Included in this principle is a hierarchy for the allocation of resources in a way that will avoid needless destruction, and maximize human welfare in a sustainable way. As a theoretical approach to the management of current environmental problems, the principle of bal tashchit is applied to the recurring water crisis in the land of Israel, and more peripherally, to the problems of climate change and loss of biodiversity. Show less
