Evolution of the Holy See’s Social Teaching

Abstract

The evolution in the social teaching of the Church is presented according to three aspects: examination of the present situation in the world, its moral evaluation and pointing out the necessary social reforms. This three-part division reflects the method of catholic social activity developed by Cardinal Cardijn and approved by Pope John XXIII in Mater et Magistra. In each of these parts the popes’ social thought becomes slightly different. Most changes in the social thought can be found in part I. Pope John XXIII pointed out to the „signs of the time” in his social teaching. The starting-point for his moral evaluation is determined by natural and Revealed law». In aspect III Pope Leo XIII saw the solution of the „social problem” in extending private ownership and just remuneration. Pope Pius XI thought the problem could be solved by establishing class-professional self-governments and by auxiliary activity of the state. Pope Pius XII sets three conditions in this respect: respect for human dignity, peoples’ solidarity, considering common ownership very important. Pope John XXIII calls for employees’ participation in administration, and their profit-and-ownership sharing. Pope Paul VI and John Paul II gives detailed advice to solve the problem rather rarely. There is much more criticism in the teaching John Paul II where emphasis is laid on moral renewal of societies. He speaks about the civilization of love.