The Meaning of Solidarity: Overcoming the Structures of Sin Together. The Relevance Today of the Social Teaching of John Paul II
Abstract
Taking the example of the encyclical letter “Sollicitudo rei socialis”, the author demonstrates the ongoing relevance of the social teaching of the Pope John Paul II. First the multifaceted gap between sub-Saharan Africa and the most affluent countries of the world, which stands even wider now than it was in 1987, is noted. Then the Pope's reflections on the causes of these global differences --- especially his notion of “the structures of sin” --- are elaborated with reference to consumption patterns in rich countries, power structures in poor countries, and global institutions. Finally, and in the light of this, it emerges that a transformation of people’s hearts and of institutions --- one taking as its model the principle of solidarity --- is ever more urgently needed.References
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