The Social Thought of John Paul II in an Asian Context

Abstract

Pope John Paul II's social thought deals with the equitable, just, and peaceful organization of society on a global as well as a local level. John Paul finds the root cause of social injustice in the structures of sin and suggests solidarity as the way to overcome these structures. John Paul II was not only a great religious thinker but also an active social reformer committed to the building of a more just society. This is evidenced by the fact that he played a pivotal role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, which had a decisive impact on the Asian situation as well. In fact, the fall of communism in Eastern Europe virtually put an end to heated controversies concerning ideologies in many parts of Asia, thereby reducing instability and orienting the progress of society in a more human direction.