Tim Shriver is a University of Utah Impact Scholar, the chairman of Special Olympics International, and the co-creator of the Dignity Index. Shriver came to Highland as a voice for his Dignity Index.
The Dignity Index is a tool designed to ease divisions, prevent violence, and help solve problems. Shriver understands that the world struggles with contempt—but the opposite of contempt is dignity.
“We believe that the problem isn’t that we look different or believe differently; the problem is the contempt we have for those who are not like us,” Shriver said.
Contempt is a daily problem the world faces. People often judge others based on their own standards: “You’re not as good as me,” or “You don’t deserve anything because I’m better.”
The Dignity Index helps people evaluate themselves and others. By testing your responses, it can be surprising to see how much contempt is used. On a scale from 1 to 8, the index helps people understand the spectrum from contempt to dignity.
Shriver emphasizes that when people hold contempt for others, it breaks us down—but as humans, we always have a choice.
“A huge part of your curriculum is empowering you with the knowledge to make decisions about your life—not to be told,” Shriver said.
As we grow up, we are constantly told what to do. But ultimately, we have the power to choose right from wrong. Shriver often reminds students, “You have a choice.”
You can choose to be kind to those who are excluded. You can choose to step in when someone is being made fun of. You always have a decision.
“The only people on Earth who can stop bullying in this high school are you,” Shriver said.
He believes every high schooler needs to take accountability for their actions. This generation has the power to change the future and bring dignity into our everyday lives.
Shriver knows he can’t stop bullying alone—but if dignity is practiced more consistently, real change can begin. People can start to see others as different, but still equal.
One of his key takeaways was understanding the correct response to contempt:
“The Dignity Index is not telling you to take risks with your safety,” Shriver said. “If someone’s being cruel or vicious or malicious or hateful, find safety. That’s the important thing to say.”
In situations where you’re trying to hold onto your dignity but are being mistreated, stepping away is still the dignified choice. Shriver reminds us that you can preserve your dignity even in walking away.
“Believe in the future of us. Don’t just believe in your own future. Don’t just believe in what you can do—believe in others,” Shriver concluded. We can’t improve without believing in one another. When dignity stands, contempt must crumble.
