Community Charter for Culture of Life

(Refined & Abbreviated Version)

The Culture of Life describes an ethics of human dignity and solidarity, recognising the inherent worth and interconnectedness of every human being — from conception to natural death — regardless of age, ability, health status, social circumstance, race, or religion. It is expressed through the promotion of human flourishing, moral formation, community dialogue, and compassionate action that cherishes life. It rejects violence or the devaluing of life as responses to vulnerability or dependency.

Vitale Think Lab deepens understanding and nurtures adoption of the Culture of Life through research, education, and dialogue — building a life-affirming society in Singapore and beyond.

The Community Charter for the Culture of Life is a shared ethical vision rooted in compassion, justice, and reason — committed to upholding human dignity, caring for life at every stage, and enabling the flourishing of individuals and the wider community.

We, as members of Singapore society — citizens, residents, professionals, leaders, families, and individuals — recognise the inherent dignity and worth of every person. We believe that a humane and flourishing society rests not only on pragmatic considerations like progress and innovation, but also and always on deep moral responsibility and solidarity with the vulnerable.

We affirm the Culture of Life through our foundational commitments:

  • Inherent Dignity: Every person has equal and intrinsic worth by virtue of being human — not due to utility, capacity, or circumstance.
  • Continuity of Life: Human life is a seamless continuum from conception to natural death, deserving respect and protection at every point.
  • Common Good: A just society nurtures its most vulnerable and seeks the wellbeing of each person and the collective whole.
  • Responsibility of Care: Individuals, families, professionals, businesses, and institutions share a duty of care — especially toward the vulnerable and dependent.
  • Integral Human Fulfilment: Moral choices must respect and promote all the basic goods of human life. One ought to will only those options compatible with the integral flourishing of persons and communities, rejecting any action that intentionally violates human dignity or undermines the good of others.

Last updated 14 June 2025