onHumaniteit

onHumaniteit is a term used in contemporary ethics and political theory to describe a movement or framework that critiques anthropocentrism and seeks to broaden the circle of moral consideration to include non-human beings, ecosystems, and autonomous technologies. Proponents describe it as a shift from human-centered obligations toward a more relational, systems-oriented responsibility that recognizes the interdependence of human welfare and the health of the broader living world.

Origin and usage: The term appears in Dutch-language debates in the late 2010s and has since circulated in academic articles, policy discourse, and think-tank reports focusing on humane design, sustainable development, and AI ethics. It is not tied to a single author or institution, but to a family of ideas that question exclusive focus on human interests.

Principles: Core tenets include moral extensionism (expanding moral concern beyond humans); contextual and relational ethics (duty arises from relationships among beings and systems); responsibility to future generations and non-human entities; and a practical emphasis on governance, law, and technology design that reduces harm and promotes flourishing across species and ecosystems.

Criticism and reception: Critics warn that onHumaniteit risks vague definitions, conflicts with rights frameworks grounded in personhood, and practical trade-offs in policy and economic policy. Some argue it could dilute accountability or complicate decision-making in emergencies. Supporters counter that it offers a more robust, resilient basis for humane policy in a technologically interconnected world.

See also: posthumanism, animal ethics, environmental ethics, humanitarian law, humane technology.