Memory and Identity
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Memory and Identity is the last book written by Pope John Paul II. It was published in 2005. The work consists of 26 chapters, each opening with a short narrative paragraph, sometimes including one or more questions. The rest of the chapter consists of the Pope's answers or reactions to the opening paragraph.
Description
The chapters are organized into five sections and an epilogue. The sections discuss his views on the issues of:
1) The nature and limitations of evil; he asserts that 'the ideologies of evil are profoundly rooted in the history of European thought'; especially the French
2) The relationship between freedom and responsibility; a discussion of the 'just good', the 'useful good' and the 'pleasurable good' brings him to criticize modern utilitarianism. Freedom must be commensurate with truth and love.
3) The nature of nationalism in the context of history and culture; patriotism and culture are expressions of love, whereas nationalism pursues the good of one's own nation alone.
4) The current social state of affairs in Europe; liberty, equality and fraternity grew out of the Gospel, but early capitalism did much damage to these principles. Europe was also uniquely devastated by two world wars.[2]
5) The virtues and weaknesses of democracy; Parliaments confer abortion rights but do nothing to defend the unborn child.
The epilogue is a first hand account of the
It also mentions the importance of the
References
Constructs such as named references (quick guide), or an abbreviated title. (October 2019) ) |