The issues of human dignity and commitment to justice are widely discussed in Christian literature. The importance of these two notions for the promotion of the common good was specifically emphasized by Pope Paul IV. In his works, he claims that the inviolable nature of the former provision leads to its interrelation with the latter since it is necessary for everyone’s well-being (“Dignitatis Humanae;” “Populorum Progressio”). To fully understand the meaning of his writings on the subject, it is vital to consider them through the lens of critical thinking and logically reveal their co-dependence with proper reasoning.
The effects of human dignity on the promotion of the common good can be easily seen from the needs of people positively correlating with the objective. On the one hand, a person is supposed to be guided by the so-called responsible freedom, which is inalienable, and make their judgment on its grounds (“Dignitatis Humanae”). On the other hand, the consequences of the exercise of this right are connected to the progressive development of all peoples in the world (“Populorum Progressio”). This consideration is particularly true for the citizens who are willing to actively improve their human qualities and seek a larger share of the benefits provided by the government (“Populorum Progressio”). These claims of Pope Paul IV, when combined, present a clear picture of one’s influence on the world, which, in turn, grants them more significant opportunities. As a result, the whole society gains from the activity of those its members who incessantly strive for perfection.
The second link between human dignity and the common good was established with the help of the desire to seek truth alongside the need to combine the efforts of all men to adequately address this task. The religion views the former as a moral obligation rather than a simple right, and, therefore, it highlights the importance of human nature in contrast to perceived responsibility instilled by others (“Dignitatis Humanae”). In turn, the significance of acting together is impossible to underestimate for the promotion of religious values and norms, which correspond to the truth in the first place (“Populorum Progressio”). From this point of view, the social question related to any type of people’s challenges in the present-day world can be resolved only in the case if they start to help one another. This initiative should be based on their improved understanding of everyone’s role in the matter. Hence, Pope Paul IV, who attempted to connect the notions of human dignity and assistance based on moral convictions, greatly contributed to the field.
The subsequent conclusion on the importance of participation, which is the key to prosperity, was also contrasted by the need for attention of men to one another in the works of this religious figure. In other words, he insisted on the necessity for everyone to “hear his brother’s plea and answer it lovingly,” confirming the role of human qualities in the establishment of unity among all peoples (“Populorum Progressio”). However, the practical implementation of this rule requires not only the inclusion of everyone in the process but also the understanding of the divine law as the principal guidance. As follows from the writings of Pope Paul IV, it is objective and universal, and directing and governing the universe is God’s duty (“Dignitatis Humanae”). Considering this expression, it can be concluded that the norms of human life related to dignity are connected to the need to spread wisdom and love, which can consequently improve the situation of many people.
Finally, the conscience as a means to transmit this law alongside the concerns of the church regarding the struggles of the developing nations add to the importance of both human dignity and commitment to justice. From this perspective, the common good can be achieved only through the acknowledgment of the true nature of people, which is divine, and the use of this notion as the grounds for further progress of humanity. According to Pope Paul IV, the purpose of life of every human being is the activity targeting the need for justice and peace (“Dignitatis Humanae;” “Populorum Progressio”). In this way, he sees the task of awakening “in the People of God full awareness of their mission” as a priority, since the well-being of the civilization depends on it (“Populorum Progressio”). Therefore, the above considerations contribute to the central role of human dignity in the promotion of justice and, consequently, the creation of a better world for everyone.
In conclusion, the critical analysis of the works of Pope Paul IV showed the connection between the notion of human dignity and the common good based on justice. This claim is confirmed by the responsible freedom of people alongside the desire to seek truth and the need to combine efforts for this objective. Moreover, the participation in the initiatives intended to improve everyone’s living conditions is complemented by the guidance presented by the divine law. Thus, the inviolable dignity of a human being contributes to the common good through a commitment to justice.
Works Cited
“Dignitatis Humanae.” The Holy See, n.d.
“Populorum Progressio.” The Holy See, n.d.