Odpowiedzialność niesienia pomocy a pomoc odpowiedzialna

The subject of the present study is help; the foremost ontological condition of its realization (besides intellectual disposition, ethical qualifications, love and others) is responsibility, which constitutes a person’s humanity and thereby makes a unique contribution to the formation of his/her inner structure. Through responsible help we can perform genuine acts of mercy towards our neighbour and carry a small part of his/ her personal fate. The aim of the study is to refine the concept of responsible help and to indicate its several modes in the formation of a person’s humanity. The essence of responsible help is investigated; it presupposes rationality of action, prudence in doing good, and freedom as the fundamental condition of conscious response to values. The refinement of the concept of responsible help is based on the analyses of the virtues of munificence and magnanimity (Aristotle and St Thomas Aquinas) and generosity (J.Tischner). Despite their complex nature, these virtues are definable through an analysis of instances of appropriate help to others.