Schweitzer, Friedrich2016-11-092016-11-092016-08-29Schweitzer, F., 2016, ‘Human dignity and education – A protestant view’, HTS Teologiese Studies/ Theological Studies 72(4), a3436. http://dx.DOI. org/ 10.4102/hts.v72i4.3436.0259-9422 (print)2072-8050 (online)10.4102/hts.v72i4.3436http://hdl.handle.net/2263/57820Prof. Dr Friedrich Schweitzer is participating in the research project ‘Gender Studies and Practical Theology Theory Formation’, directed by Prof. Dr Yolanda Dreyer, Department of Practical Theology, Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, South Africa.Taking current discussions on the relationship between human dignity as a human right and education as his starting point the author pursues the possibility of interpreting this relationship from a Protestant perspective based on the biblical understanding of the likeness of God. Since this understanding has not been at the centre of the majority view in Protestant educational thinking the author tries to uncover a minority tradition that has made the likeness of God the basis of education (Melanchthon, Comenius, and others). In another step, the author describes four foundational perspectives for making the likeness of God and human dignity the basis for education today, addressing education beyond utilitarianism, justice in education and education for justice, interreligious education and special commitment to children’s rights. In all four respects Protestantism can make important contributions but there is also a need for the renewal of Protestantism’s understanding of education in light of future challenges.en© 2016. The Authors. Licensee: AOSIS. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.Human rightEducationHuman dignityLikeness of GodProtestant educational thinkingTheology articles SDG-04SDG-04: Quality educationTheology articles SDG-05SDG-05: Gender equalityTheology articles SDG-08SDG-08: Decent work and economic growthTheology articles SDG-10SDG-10: Reduced inequalitiesTheology articles SDG-16SDG-16: Peace, justice and strong institutionsHuman dignity and education – a Protestant viewArticle