Upon having explained the relevance of this topic, some texts from the OPS dealing with the subject are presented. Several paradigms on the human being are outlined, along with the general ideas of complex thought relating to the matter, as well as evidences on the existence of the spirit as a differentiating or unifying element in the definitions of human being and individual, and various arguments helping to conclude when the human being’s spirit begins to exist. In addition, in order to help decision-making on human beings be ethic, reference to the subject is proposed. The article reflects some of the ideas exposed in the book Ser humano y persona, edited in 2003 by La Sabana University and the Celam.Después de manifestar la relevancia ...