ABSTRACT
Dignity has recently entered the discourse on development in various ways. This chapter aims to arrive at a clearer understanding of the meaning and the importance of dignity, which is a case of an “essentially contested concept.” The history of the concept in European thought is laid out, starting with classical Roman dignitas, proceeding to the transmission of a universalized conception by the Roman statesman Cicero, and then modern versions that have emerged. The thesis that dignity spread from aristocrats to commoners is rebutted and the contrary case is made. It concludes with consideration of dignity for India’s Dalit people.
