Peter Debo

Defense Date

11-15-2006

Graduation Date

Fall 2006

Availability

Immediate Access

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

PhD

Department

Theology

School

McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts

Committee Chair

James P. Hanigan

Committee Member

James P. Bailey

Committee Member

William M. Wright

Keywords

development factors, human dignity, human person, human rights, integral human development, Uganda

Abstract

This study investigates and questions Uganda's development claims and choice between confrontation and mutual respect among the people, using Paul VI's notion of integral human development in Populorum Progressio and the requisite development principles, virtues and conditions or factors presented therein. In the study I have argued that the development claims of Uganda do not, to a significant degree, meet the standards of human development advocated by Paul VI in Populorum Progressio. The study shows that human dignity and its universality precipitate the significance of the question of integral human development, and consequently necessitate a relevant anthropology.

The structure of the work is as follows: First, I espoused the influences behind Paul VI's vision of human development. These influences shaped his notion of development and the principles he proposed for authentic human development. They facilitate the understanding of his doctrine in Populorum Progressio.

Secondly, I highlighted the problems Paul VI was addressing, and thereafter his proposed solutions, and his understanding of the notion and nature of true development as being integral -- the development of the entire person and of all people. The principle underlying this vision of development is human dignity. On the basis of the universal character of this underlying principle, I have argued that integral human development ought to promote the human dignity of all people irrespective of age, sex, socio-economic and political status, tribe, nation, race and color. I highlighted and explained other principles and factors necessary for integral human development and related them to the most fundamental principle.

Thirdly, I reconstructed an anthropology for integral human development which Paul VI proposed in Populorum Progressio. This aimed to build reaffirm the cohesive and fundamental principle. I argued and concluded that human dignity is de facto the most fundamental principle that ought to be understood, acknowledged, and underscored. All other principles for human development are important but they revolve around it.

Finally, I applied the principles presented in Populorum Progressio to the mediating structures of pastoral or religious, socio-economic and political life and community development in Uganda. Based on an understanding and respect for human dignity and its relation to other development principles, virtues and conditions I concluded that the application of the principles of integral human development is a failure in modern Uganda, to a significant extent, because the recognition and respect for human dignity is minimal in almost every context or sector. Consequently, among other recommendations, I have proposed education about human dignity and moral principles that promote human dignity as necessary, and one of the most crucial challenges to Uganda in this opening decade of the Twenty-First century and later.

Format

PDF

Language

English

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