Just Society and the Culture of Peace
Jove Jim S. AGUAS
Philosophy Department, Research Center for Theology, Religious Studies, and Ethics, University of Santo Tomas, España Blvd, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila, Philippines , PhilippinesAbstract
A just society and world peace are ideals that have remained elusive. Historical facts attest to this sad reality. Many studies show that in the twentieth century alone, with two world wars, almost two hundred million people were killed by war, oppression, and other forms of conflicts and atrocities. But still, humanity continues to dream of attaining these ideals. This is attested by the many declarations and resolutions on peace and proposals on how to achieve a just society. It is not difficult to see that a culture of peace and a just society are two ideals that are intertwined. From a Christian perspective, based on the Church’s social teachings, I propose certain basic principles that serve as the foundation for a just and humane society and specific initiatives and courses of action through which we can promote a culture of peace and create a just society. Forming a just and human society and promoting a culture of peace is arduous, considering that behind us is a human history marked by violent struggles and transformation. However, peace is humankind’s hope for a blissful and happy life in this world.
Keywords:
culture of peace, global solidarity, justice, society, peaceReferences
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Philosophy Department, Research Center for Theology, Religious Studies, and Ethics, University of Santo Tomas, España Blvd, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila, Philippines
