Overview
In this volume, Pope John Paul II speaks for the first time on global politics. He discusses his views on freedom and democracy and speaks about the twentieth-century totalitarian ideologies of communism and nazism. Making an emphatic appeal for mankind to regard freedom "not only as a gift but a task" to be used for the common good, he calls for a dialogue between all the world's civilizations and religions. This work is a unique reflection on human life, and will be admired by thinkers of all religions and nationalities.Synopsis
As he showed the faithful how to accept death, thousands in the street outside pleaded with him to stay with them. Pope John Paul II proves one can be a person of action as well as a person of faith in this series of conversations with his philosopher friends about the political events of the twentieth century, some of the most compelling of which he observed first-hand. He explains how faith responds to political situations, gives courage, and heals in unexpected ways. In a startling epilogue, he responds to questions about his memory of the assassination attempt of 1981, what it revealed about his own faith, and the acts he took from it. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
Library Journal
Offering transcribed conversations that took place in 1993 between the late Pope John Paul II and two of his closest friends, this collection of essays cover historical, religious, and philosophical themes that span 100 years of European history and look to the future. Each chapter is written in an informal tone and prefaced with a question that helps the reader understand the point under discussion. Major headings include "The Limit Imposed Upon Evil," "Freedom and Responsibility," "Thinking `My Country,' " "Thinking `Europe,' " and "Democracy: Possibilities and Risks." Within each of these categories four to six short chapters deal with such topics as "Ideologies of Evil" and "The Mystery of Mercy." In the epilog, the Pope discusses the 1981 attempt on his life and his subsequent relationship with the would-be assassin. John Paul II's knowledge of Scripture, theology, history, and philosophy combined with his spiritual wisdom and more than 80 years of life experience offer deep insights for Catholics and non-Catholics alike. The format and style of this book make it accessible to most informed readers. Recommended for academic and public libraries.-C. Robert Nixon, M.L.S., Lafayette, IN Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.