The shortcomings of capitalism and communism in light of John Paul II's "humanness"

Abstract

This thesis examines how the teachings of John Paul II could have an impact on social justice and economical systems. I demonstrate that the current crisis is more a humanistic than an economic crisis. Through what I have designated as John Paul II's ―prism of humanness" fostered on his concept of the human person, I demonstrate that his teaching could have an impact in overcoming the current economic crisis. John Paul II's social justice is uniquely rooted in the relationship he has established about the nature of human person, his dignity, rights, justice, charity, his right to private property and work, forming a base for peace and development. Otherwise, lack of justice and charity first result in inequality and exploitation of humans by humans, and secondly lead to war and sometimes genocide. What happened in Rwanda is given as an example.