Soborowe i posoborowe nauczanie Kościoła na temat wojny

Abstract

Total, preventive and universal wars lead to the destruction of values and hence human dignity. They are saturated with pain and anxiety as there is no war without sacrifice. One can agree with the Council that all wars conducted by nations are a crime that should be condemned. The only exception is defensive wars fought in the defence of necessity. The times we live in are characterized by the rapid progress of humanity and the invention of increasingly better tools for world destruction. All nations strive to develop their professional equipment for defence against aggressors. This results in enormous expenditure which could otherwise be used to aid those living in poverty. There is also an accompanying fear of new methods of human destruction. However, we cannot really do anything about that if our hearts are constantly filled with hatred for another person. Wars will continue to target human life so people should learn to build peace for their security. Above all, young people should not be instilled with hatred for other human beings. By contrast, they should be taught love and tolerance towards others. Those are the foundations for war avoidance.