Introduction.- Main Substantive Terms, Their Basic Differences and Links, and Leading Working Hypothesis.- Historical Overview of the Development of the Concept of Humanityin International Law and Crimes against Humanity.- "Humanity" within the Contemporary Context of International Law Dealing with Crimes against Humanity.-"Humanity" as a Valid Protected Interest under the Rechtsgutstheorie.- The Protected Legal Interests of Crimes against Humanity and Other Core Crimes under International Law: A Comparative Analysis.- Conclusion.