The Hidden Keynote in Giovanni Pico della Mirandola's Understanding of Human Dignity and Freedom

This paper points out that the idea of creation serves as the “hidden keynote” in Pico’s celebrated Oration. Against the claims of some prominent commentators, we will argue that Pico does not see freedom as the ultimate basis of man’s dignity. By contrasting Pico’s statements with those of Sartre, we will see that freedom for Pico is one that is conditioned. This view has implications for our understanding of the human condition, the possibilities for self-definition, and for determining the moral worth of various manners of living. Drawing attention to the notion of creation helps us to understand Pico on his own terms and historical context and to see how his notions of human will and dignity are distinct from modern and contemporary conceptions.status: publishe