150
convictions and attitudes will only ensure that
those same structures will become, sooner or lat-
er, corrupt, oppressive and ineffectual.
190.âSometimes it is a matter of hearing the
cry of entire peoples, the poorest peoples of the
earth, since âpeace is founded not only on re-
spect for human rights, but also on respect for the
rights of peoplesâ.
154
Sadly, even human rights
can be used as a justification for an inordinate
defense of individual rights or the rights of the
richer peoples. With due respect for the auton-
omy and culture of every nation, we must never
forget that the planet belongs to all mankind and
is meant for all mankind; the mere fact that some
people are born in places with fewer resources
or less development does not justify the fact that
they are living with less dignity. It must be reit-
erated that âthe more fortunate should renounce
some of their rights so as to place their goods
more generously at the service of othersâ.
155
To
speak properly of our own rights, we need to
broaden our perspective and to hear the plea of
other peoples and other regions than those of
our own country. We need to grow in a solidarity
which âwould allow all peoples to become the
154
âP
ontifical
C
ouncil
for
J
ustice and
P
eace
,
Compendi-
um of the Social Doctrine of the Church
, 157.
155
âP
aul
VI, Apostolic Letter
Octogesima Adveniens
(14 May
1971), 23: AAS 63 (1971), 418.