It is fascinating how certain ideas can unite all people, yet we can be so unaware of their presence.
According to the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, "Personalism posits ultimate reality and value in personhood -- human as well as (at least for most personalists) divine. It emphasizes the significance, uniqueness and inviolability of the person, as well as the person's essentially relational or social dimension."
In other words, the philosophy of personalism begins with the belief that every human life is sacred and significant, and that we are all interconnected. In embraces a healthy love of self and extends to a love for all humanity. I am loved and worthy of love. My life has a purpose. I have a contribution to make for the betterment of humanity. You are my sister. You are my brother. You are sacred as well, and you too have a significant contribution to make. Let's embrace the power of love and work together for peace and prosperity.
Personalism stands in stark contrast to the ideal of individualism, where each person is an island and needs to "look out for number one." It also contradicts the collectivist ideal of sacrificing the rights and responsibilities of the individual "for the good of the cause."
Though the word "personalism" was not used until the 20th century, the idea is ancient and can be seen in the writings of Plato and many great philosophers. It also transcends the concept of religion. There are Christian personalists, Islamic personalists, Buddhist personalists, and even atheistic personalists. It is a thread of truth that weaves through all of humanity, as evidenced not only by its persistence, but by its enduring and positive impact.
Many of the greatest and most beloved leaders of our time embraced this philosophy.
Civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. actively studied and incorporated personalism. This clearly resonates in all of his words and actions.
One of the most prolific writers on personalism was the Polish philosopher Karol Wojtyla. He stated, "The person is a good towards which the only proper and adequate attitude is love."
Wojtyla went on to become Pope John Paul II. As people listened to his words and embraced his philosophy in every corner of the world, we entered a new era of human history as the iron curtain collapsed.
Though Canadians tend to keep their religious beliefs to themselves, some of the most influential and iconic leaders of the 20th century were Christian personalists. For example, Pierre Trudeau, the man who spearheaded official multiculturalism in Canada, was strongly influenced by the personalism he studied and discussed in forward thinking Catholic institutions.
The ideas of Personalism remain prominent in Canada today. They echo many of the First Nations teachings which are growing in prominence. They also resonate with the beliefs numerous Canadians.
Because it is a philosophy, personalism is not exclusive to any religion. Because the ideas are universal, it is not attached to any particular culture. It is therefore a concept which brings people together.
In studying our past, especially the history of the 20th century, we can see that the further the paradigm of a government lies from the ideals of personalism, the more destructive it becomes. It is very tempting to see the world in terms of "us and them", denying the humanity of those we blame for our problems. It is also very tempting to place "the cause" ahead of the sacredness and freedom of the individual. These ideas, however, have always led to failure.
Personalism embraces the goodness in each and every one of us. It encourages us to become our best selves, and it requires love and respect for each individual sharing the planet with us.
As we take time to explore and expand on these principles together, we are able to create a world which we are proud to leave to our children, a world where everyone can thrive.
Gerry Chidiac is a champion for social enlightenment, inspiring others to find their greatness in making the world a better place. For more of his writings, go to www.gerrychidiac.com
