“Above all nations is humanity” is a thought associated with the British historian, political thinker and humanist Goldwin Smith (1823–1910), whose life and work were closely connected with Cornell University. Although his legacy is complex, this idea is remembered as a powerful expression of human solidarity beyond national borders. The words are carved into a stone bench in front of Goldwin Smith Hall on Cornell’s campus in the United States. The bench was given to the university by Smith in 1871, while the hall, named in his honour, was dedicated in 1906.
Its meaning is clear and timeless: above the interests of nations, states, and ideologies must stand humanity as the community of all people. It is a simple yet radical statement, emphasising that compassion, justice and responsibility towards all people must not be limited by national borders, but should form the foundation of our thinking and action.
In an age of increasingly self-centred international relations, the idea that humanity stands above all nations is crucial. Today, power and force often replace treaties, agreements and ethical principles. Although the United Nations, founded in 1945, set humanity on a course of cooperation and shared responsibility, these essential values are increasingly under threat.
The United Nations was created from the hard lessons of two world wars, which showed how national power, selfishness and the sense of superiority can lead to conflict and destruction. Today, policies that emphasise national greatness and exceptionalism risk repeating these mistakes. No nation rises above another. What matters most is our shared humanity.
Every person counts. Each is equal to every other. Everyone has the right to health, well-being, peace, justice and a healthy environment.
Today, the rise of selfishness, greed and violence threatens our common future.
Cooperation, sharing, and respect for every human being are essential for our common future, for above all nations stands humanity. We are human beings first, before we are members of any nation, state, religion, ethnic background, political group or other belief.
Ni komentarjev:
Objavite komentar