| Utilizing a hermeneutical methodology, this dissertation examines the relationship between liberation theology, just-war, and revolution, and their implications for world order. The concept "world order" has been defined in its contemporary political/international context. As a theoretical juxtaposition, this dissertation also examines the Reagan Doctrine as it pertains to liberation theology and reflects on the notion whether it can be construed as its negation.;The major findings of this dissertation are as follows. First, in spite of the dichotomy between church and state, there are a number of elements shared by liberation theology and world politics. Among them are the recognition of the usage of force, and taking a realist position on world conflicts. Second, this study found that liberation theology, by its religio-political nature, serves as a buffer between church and state and between belligerents. Third, this study has found that force has two dimensions: one is destructive, and the other is order-inducing which establishes peace and stability. Moreover this dissertation has also found that world order is a complex phenomenon to define either as a concept or as a process. The final finding of this dissertation is that the minimum conditions for the coexistence of the states in the international system establish the foundation for world order.;Specifically, this dissertation focusses on the following questions: What are the foundations of liberation theology? Are its liberating principles exclusively political? Does the political nature of liberation theology deprive the movement of its religious identity? What is the relationship between liberation theology, just-war, and revolution? What are the implications for political world order?... |
