Latin for "image of God," this concept denotes the theological doctrine that human beings are made in the likeness and image of God, usually referring to the human intellect, the capacity for moral decision-making, and the ability to rule over creation as "created co-creators" and stewards of the gifts of God. In Catholic theology, this doctrine is the foundation for other foundational principles and concepts such as
human dignity, the
sanctity of life and
stewardship.
