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Memory and Identity: Conversations at the Dawn of a Millennium
In conversations with two Polish philosophy professors, the Pope offers his views on recent history and politics, evil, freedom, democracy, the moral status of modern Europe, and related topics, including the attempt on his life.
172 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2005
36 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Pope John Paul II
1,052 books629 followersSaint Pope John Paul II (Latin: Ioannes Paulus II), born Karol Józef Wojtyła was elected Pope at the Conclave of 16 October 1978, and he took the name of John Paul II. On 22 October, the Lord's Day, he solemnly inaugurated his Petrine ministry as the 263rd successor to the Apostle. His pontificate, one of the longest in the history of the Church, lasted nearly 27 years.
Driven by his pastoral solicitude for all Churches and by a sense of openness and charity to the entire human race, John Paul II exercised the Petrine ministry with a tireless missionary spirit, dedicating it all his energy. He made 104 pastoral visits outside Italy and 146 within Italy. As bishop of Rome he visited 317 of the city's 333 parishes.
He had more meetings than any of his predecessors with the People of God and the leaders of Nations. More than 17,600,000 pilgrims participated in the General Audiences held on Wednesdays (more than 1160), not counting other special audiences and religious ceremonies [more than 8 million pilgrims during the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000 alone], and the millions of faithful he met during pastoral visits in Italy and throughout the world. We must also remember the numerous government personalities he encountered during 38 official visits, 738 audiences and meetings held with Heads of State, and 246 audiences and meetings with Prime Ministers.
His love for young people brought him to establish the World Youth Days. The 19 WYDs celebrated during his pontificate brought together millions of young people from all over the world. At the same time his care for the family was expressed in the World Meetings of Families, which he initiated in 1994. John Paul II successfully encouraged dialogue with the Jews and with the representatives of other religions, whom he several times invited to prayer meetings for peace, especially in Assisi.
Under his guidance the Church prepared herself for the third millennium and celebrated the Great Jubilee of the year 2000 in accordance with the instructions given in the Apostolic Letter Tertio Millennio adveniente. The Church then faced the new epoch, receiving his instructions in the Apostolic Letter Novo Millennio ineunte, in which he indicated to the faithful their future path.
With the Year of the Redemption, the Marian Year and the Year of the Eucharist, he promoted the spiritual renewal of the Church. He gave an extraordinary impetus to Canonizations and Beatifications, focusing on countless examples of holiness as an incentive for the people of our time. He celebrated 147 beatification ceremonies during which he proclaimed 1,338 Blesseds; and 51 canonizations for a total of 482 saints. He made Thérèse of the Child Jesus a Doctor of the Church.
He considerably expanded the College of Cardinals, creating 231 Cardinals (plus one in pectore) in 9 consistories. He also called six full meetings of the College of Cardinals. His most important Documents include 14 Encyclicals, 15 Apostolic Exhortations, 11 Apostolic Constitutions, 45 Apostolic Letters. He promulgated the Catechism of the Catholic Church in the light of Tradition as authoritatively interpreted by the Second Vatican Council. He also reformed the Eastern and Western Codes of Canon Law, created new Institutions and reorganized the Roman Curia.
In the light of Christ risen from the dead, on 2 April 2005 at 9.37 p.m., while Saturday was drawing to a close and the Lord's Day was already beginning, the Octave of Easter and Divine Mercy Sunday, the Church's beloved Pastor, John Paul II, departed this world for the Father. On April 1, 2011, he was raised to the glory of the altars and on April 27, 2014 canonized.
Driven by his pastoral solicitude for all Churches and by a sense of openness and charity to the entire human race, John Paul II exercised the Petrine ministry with a tireless missionary spirit, dedicating it all his energy. He made 104 pastoral visits outside Italy and 146 within Italy. As bishop of Rome he visited 317 of the city's 333 parishes.
He had more meetings than any of his predecessors with the People of God and the leaders of Nations. More than 17,600,000 pilgrims participated in the General Audiences held on Wednesdays (more than 1160), not counting other special audiences and religious ceremonies [more than 8 million pilgrims during the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000 alone], and the millions of faithful he met during pastoral visits in Italy and throughout the world. We must also remember the numerous government personalities he encountered during 38 official visits, 738 audiences and meetings held with Heads of State, and 246 audiences and meetings with Prime Ministers.
His love for young people brought him to establish the World Youth Days. The 19 WYDs celebrated during his pontificate brought together millions of young people from all over the world. At the same time his care for the family was expressed in the World Meetings of Families, which he initiated in 1994. John Paul II successfully encouraged dialogue with the Jews and with the representatives of other religions, whom he several times invited to prayer meetings for peace, especially in Assisi.
Under his guidance the Church prepared herself for the third millennium and celebrated the Great Jubilee of the year 2000 in accordance with the instructions given in the Apostolic Letter Tertio Millennio adveniente. The Church then faced the new epoch, receiving his instructions in the Apostolic Letter Novo Millennio ineunte, in which he indicated to the faithful their future path.
With the Year of the Redemption, the Marian Year and the Year of the Eucharist, he promoted the spiritual renewal of the Church. He gave an extraordinary impetus to Canonizations and Beatifications, focusing on countless examples of holiness as an incentive for the people of our time. He celebrated 147 beatification ceremonies during which he proclaimed 1,338 Blesseds; and 51 canonizations for a total of 482 saints. He made Thérèse of the Child Jesus a Doctor of the Church.
He considerably expanded the College of Cardinals, creating 231 Cardinals (plus one in pectore) in 9 consistories. He also called six full meetings of the College of Cardinals. His most important Documents include 14 Encyclicals, 15 Apostolic Exhortations, 11 Apostolic Constitutions, 45 Apostolic Letters. He promulgated the Catechism of the Catholic Church in the light of Tradition as authoritatively interpreted by the Second Vatican Council. He also reformed the Eastern and Western Codes of Canon Law, created new Institutions and reorganized the Roman Curia.
In the light of Christ risen from the dead, on 2 April 2005 at 9.37 p.m., while Saturday was drawing to a close and the Lord's Day was already beginning, the Octave of Easter and Divine Mercy Sunday, the Church's beloved Pastor, John Paul II, departed this world for the Father. On April 1, 2011, he was raised to the glory of the altars and on April 27, 2014 canonized.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 16, 2020
Move over Nietzsche, this is Awesome !
I am not a big fan of the Catholic Church and do not think of myself as ‘religious’. But glancing at this book - the views coincided so closely with my own thoughts. I was intrigued to see how PJP2 reaches his conclusions. I realised that my own upbringing was influenced heavily by 1970s Church of England Christianity and the Greek philosophers; Aristotle, Socrates, Archimedes etc - exactly the same kind of logical thinking that influenced St. Thomas Aquinas. It is amazing to become aware of how your own mind was shaped by the same powerful ideas expressed in different forms. In my case by a mild religious influence at school, an inquiring mind and a liberal education - in the case of PJP by strict doctrine & priestly example. Both paths leading to the same destination. The book helped me understand the written scripture behind my views which I just regarded as my own individual thoughts. Today, we live in an age of moral relativism where to express an ‘opinion’ or a dissenting voice is often demonised and stamped on. People are expected to 'sleep-walk' through life intellectually & 'switch-off' morally. ‘Go with the flow’. But as PJP explain this ultimately leads to either communism or fascism. If you still have the ability to think for yourself and reason things out this book will deepen your confidence; you are not alone. At least the catholics are being taught right from wrong. So maybe there is hope after all !!
I am not a big fan of the Catholic Church and do not think of myself as ‘religious’. But glancing at this book - the views coincided so closely with my own thoughts. I was intrigued to see how PJP2 reaches his conclusions. I realised that my own upbringing was influenced heavily by 1970s Church of England Christianity and the Greek philosophers; Aristotle, Socrates, Archimedes etc - exactly the same kind of logical thinking that influenced St. Thomas Aquinas. It is amazing to become aware of how your own mind was shaped by the same powerful ideas expressed in different forms. In my case by a mild religious influence at school, an inquiring mind and a liberal education - in the case of PJP by strict doctrine & priestly example. Both paths leading to the same destination. The book helped me understand the written scripture behind my views which I just regarded as my own individual thoughts. Today, we live in an age of moral relativism where to express an ‘opinion’ or a dissenting voice is often demonised and stamped on. People are expected to 'sleep-walk' through life intellectually & 'switch-off' morally. ‘Go with the flow’. But as PJP explain this ultimately leads to either communism or fascism. If you still have the ability to think for yourself and reason things out this book will deepen your confidence; you are not alone. At least the catholics are being taught right from wrong. So maybe there is hope after all !!
January 14, 2023
Zacząłem czytać to, bo OCD mi kazało - było na liście lektur w liceum, pożyczyłem książkę kilkanaście lat temu, nie no trzeba.
Przygotowany na pewną jak amen w pacierzu (hehe) jedną gwiazdeczkę, zero wątpliwości, a tu niespodzianka.
Plusy/minusy wg mnie:
+ Fantastycznie było przeczytać coś, z czym mogłem się nie zgadzać. Za długo przesiedziałem w komfortowych książkach w obrębie mojego własnego światopoglądu. Fajnie włączyć lekko zardzewiałe myślenie krytyczne.
+ Nie można odmówić JP2 znajomości różnorodnych prądów filozoficznych i często totalnie składał mi się jego cały wywód filozoficzny do kupy. Tylko mnie przekonywał do zupełnie przeciwnego wniosku niż autor zamierzał udowodnić. XD
+ Shockingly, pojawiły się elementy trzeźwego spojrzenia na różne wydarzenia historyczne oraz realia świata przełomu tysiącleci - nieśmiała krytyka kolonializmu, brak nadmiernego pudrowania roli kościoła jako organizacji przy okazji niektórych wydarzeń historycznych. Oczywiście, nie ma co klaskać za mocno, ale tak czy owak - kto by pomyślał!
- Gdy wjeżdzał zabobon, kończyła się logika.
- W wielu miejscach nadinterpetacja/celowa manipulacja fragmentami różnych dzieł, no i klasycznie Biblii - tu już bez filtra, z randomowego zdania zbudowana cała argumentacja.
- Oczywiście, krytyka podstawowych praw kobiet/ludzi LGBT+ poparta absolutnie niczym substantial.
- Miejscami gęsto od pustych chrześcijańskich frazesów.
- Nie było nic o kremówkach.
Przygotowany na pewną jak amen w pacierzu (hehe) jedną gwiazdeczkę, zero wątpliwości, a tu niespodzianka.
Plusy/minusy wg mnie:
+ Fantastycznie było przeczytać coś, z czym mogłem się nie zgadzać. Za długo przesiedziałem w komfortowych książkach w obrębie mojego własnego światopoglądu. Fajnie włączyć lekko zardzewiałe myślenie krytyczne.
+ Nie można odmówić JP2 znajomości różnorodnych prądów filozoficznych i często totalnie składał mi się jego cały wywód filozoficzny do kupy. Tylko mnie przekonywał do zupełnie przeciwnego wniosku niż autor zamierzał udowodnić. XD
+ Shockingly, pojawiły się elementy trzeźwego spojrzenia na różne wydarzenia historyczne oraz realia świata przełomu tysiącleci - nieśmiała krytyka kolonializmu, brak nadmiernego pudrowania roli kościoła jako organizacji przy okazji niektórych wydarzeń historycznych. Oczywiście, nie ma co klaskać za mocno, ale tak czy owak - kto by pomyślał!
- Gdy wjeżdzał zabobon, kończyła się logika.
- W wielu miejscach nadinterpetacja/celowa manipulacja fragmentami różnych dzieł, no i klasycznie Biblii - tu już bez filtra, z randomowego zdania zbudowana cała argumentacja.
- Oczywiście, krytyka podstawowych praw kobiet/ludzi LGBT+ poparta absolutnie niczym substantial.
- Miejscami gęsto od pustych chrześcijańskich frazesów.
- Nie było nic o kremówkach.
August 5, 2016
The last of Pope John Paul II's books that he wrote, it is the perfect complement to the definitive biography, "Witness to Hope" by George Weigel, and is an appropriate companion to today's canonization of him and Pope John XXIII. Saints worth emulating.
September 13, 2020
"I am speaking of a devastation of consciences , with ruinous consequences in the moral sphere, effecting personal and social morality..." (p. 137)
Since we are now 20 years into the millennium, these conversations have become even more relevant today than ever before. Apart from the feeling that this great spiritual leader is talking directly to any reader who picks this up, there is an insight into certain matters such as the war between good and evil which would be universally relevant for all. There is a holistic approach in these conversations, that should make these quite a read for many, a read which for me had to be taken in small doses to allow for reflection and acceptance.
Since we are now 20 years into the millennium, these conversations have become even more relevant today than ever before. Apart from the feeling that this great spiritual leader is talking directly to any reader who picks this up, there is an insight into certain matters such as the war between good and evil which would be universally relevant for all. There is a holistic approach in these conversations, that should make these quite a read for many, a read which for me had to be taken in small doses to allow for reflection and acceptance.
March 4, 2025
In being interviewed, the Pontiff offers answers based on both his personal experience and the Catholic position on various topics. On questions such as the reality of evil, how divine providence functions, what good is, the existence of natural societies such as the family and the nation, patrimony and patriotism, and generally a variety of other topics that are primarily aimed to be social, political, and anthropological while connecting them to some kind of theological meaning.
It’s a relatively short book but there’s a lot of fruit in it! You certainly will get a glimpse of Catholic Social Teaching in this and how those principles can be related to the experience of the Pontiff.
It’s a relatively short book but there’s a lot of fruit in it! You certainly will get a glimpse of Catholic Social Teaching in this and how those principles can be related to the experience of the Pontiff.
November 23, 2011
As the first Polish pope and the first non-Italian pope since the early 1500s, Pope John Paul II had a unique perspective on the conflicts in Europe during the later half of the twentieth century. In Memory and Identity, Pope John Paul II explores the coexistence of good and evil, the nature of patriotism versus nationalism, and the historical and cultural trends that led to the “eruption of evil” that was Nazism and Communism. Coming of age during World War II, he was a first-hand witness of the atrocities and oppression of these “ideologies of evil” and for years spoke out against them.
I enjoyed reading his thoughts about his homeland. The Holy Father describes his native land with great love and fondness and finds divine approval for love of country under the fourth commandment to “honor thy father and mother.” He defines patriotism as “a love for everything to do with our native land: its history, its traditions, its language, its natural features,” but cautions that true patriotism “accords rights to all other nations equal to those claimed for one's own” in contrast to nationalism which “involves recognizing and pursing the good of one's own nation alone, without regard for the rights of others.”
Speaking of Western democracies, Pope John Paul calls freedom a gift to mankind from the Creator, but at the same time, a “task.” “Through freedom, man is called to accept and to implement the truth regarding the good.” We should use our agency to do good in every sphere in which we have influence: “in personal and family life, in the economic and political sphere, in national and international arenas.” Through Christ, he confirms “that good is ultimately victorious, that life conquers death and that love triumphs over hate.” His unshakable conviction that good will win, especially in light of his experiences in eastern Europe, reminds me of President Hinckley's infectious enthusiasm and optimism.
Pope John Paul weaves Catholic doctrine through themes of history, international politics and social justice. He draws attention to the rights of indigenous peoples, declares that “care for the needy is incomparably more important than polemics and denunciations,” and reaffirms Christ's “twin precepts of love of God and love of neighbor” as the foundation of Christian morals. I appreciate his acknowledgement that, like each of us as individuals, “the Church, as a human institution, is continually in need of purification and renewal.” His Holiness also issues a call, echoing scripture both ancient and modern, for all Christians to be witnesses of Christ. It's a call we would all do well to heed.
For more book reviews, come visit my blog, Build Enough Bookshelves.
I enjoyed reading his thoughts about his homeland. The Holy Father describes his native land with great love and fondness and finds divine approval for love of country under the fourth commandment to “honor thy father and mother.” He defines patriotism as “a love for everything to do with our native land: its history, its traditions, its language, its natural features,” but cautions that true patriotism “accords rights to all other nations equal to those claimed for one's own” in contrast to nationalism which “involves recognizing and pursing the good of one's own nation alone, without regard for the rights of others.”
Speaking of Western democracies, Pope John Paul calls freedom a gift to mankind from the Creator, but at the same time, a “task.” “Through freedom, man is called to accept and to implement the truth regarding the good.” We should use our agency to do good in every sphere in which we have influence: “in personal and family life, in the economic and political sphere, in national and international arenas.” Through Christ, he confirms “that good is ultimately victorious, that life conquers death and that love triumphs over hate.” His unshakable conviction that good will win, especially in light of his experiences in eastern Europe, reminds me of President Hinckley's infectious enthusiasm and optimism.
Pope John Paul weaves Catholic doctrine through themes of history, international politics and social justice. He draws attention to the rights of indigenous peoples, declares that “care for the needy is incomparably more important than polemics and denunciations,” and reaffirms Christ's “twin precepts of love of God and love of neighbor” as the foundation of Christian morals. I appreciate his acknowledgement that, like each of us as individuals, “the Church, as a human institution, is continually in need of purification and renewal.” His Holiness also issues a call, echoing scripture both ancient and modern, for all Christians to be witnesses of Christ. It's a call we would all do well to heed.
For more book reviews, come visit my blog, Build Enough Bookshelves.
November 15, 2008
this is my next favorite from JPII after 'Crossing the Threshold of Hope'.
JPII has a very deep, personal and at the same time entertaining way of reflecting - as if he speaks to your soul! My favorite topics were the 'eruption of Evil' during the Nazi/Communist era - and God's way of answering Evil/or the limit on evil which is through his Mercy; he thenfurther takes note of St. Faustina as the messenger of Divine Mercy. And as a (big fan) of Theology of the Body - i simply love it every time he reflects on the Book of Genesis : Human nature and how we messed it up, etc. And although Man was severed from God, God answers to Man with love (one of which is how God provided the loin cloths to Adam and Eve -i'm recounting this from memory). I find it especially thrilling every time he meditates on the Mystery of Man and his Person hood - it is always with such awe and wonder, first of all because man is made in the 'Image and Likeness of God' - who is the source of such attributes. I also like his closing commentaries during the assassination attempt he endured with the help of Our Lady of Fatima in the 1980s. This is a great book if you want something to meditate on which will give you tremendous Hope and Love for God. JP II we love you!
JPII has a very deep, personal and at the same time entertaining way of reflecting - as if he speaks to your soul! My favorite topics were the 'eruption of Evil' during the Nazi/Communist era - and God's way of answering Evil/or the limit on evil which is through his Mercy; he thenfurther takes note of St. Faustina as the messenger of Divine Mercy. And as a (big fan) of Theology of the Body - i simply love it every time he reflects on the Book of Genesis : Human nature and how we messed it up, etc. And although Man was severed from God, God answers to Man with love (one of which is how God provided the loin cloths to Adam and Eve -i'm recounting this from memory). I find it especially thrilling every time he meditates on the Mystery of Man and his Person hood - it is always with such awe and wonder, first of all because man is made in the 'Image and Likeness of God' - who is the source of such attributes. I also like his closing commentaries during the assassination attempt he endured with the help of Our Lady of Fatima in the 1980s. This is a great book if you want something to meditate on which will give you tremendous Hope and Love for God. JP II we love you!
March 8, 2024
Pope John Paul II, born a Pole, expounds upon the struggles and identities of his countrymen and women during war and societal changes throughout 20th century Europe; and beyond touching upon on the ideologies of Nazism, Communism, Socialism, Consumerism, Materialism, (to name just a few of the -isms covered within) the concept of liberty, and the system of Democracy. I felt this was somewhat a timely read with references to the Cold War situation of the past in light of current events between Russia, Europe, and the United States of the present.
John Paul II was certainly a learned man, and in this book presents a philosophically informed framework which underpins his theological views on various biblical, and contemporary concepts as he recounts events throughout the history in which he lived.
While his views are traditional, and undoubtedly dogmatic, which will largely appeal to Catholic readers primarily, I believe his pursuit of peace among nations is what gives him a lasting presence in the memory of the global audience of the day.
John Paul II was certainly a learned man, and in this book presents a philosophically informed framework which underpins his theological views on various biblical, and contemporary concepts as he recounts events throughout the history in which he lived.
While his views are traditional, and undoubtedly dogmatic, which will largely appeal to Catholic readers primarily, I believe his pursuit of peace among nations is what gives him a lasting presence in the memory of the global audience of the day.
October 29, 2018
This book doesn't mess around. It's a conversation with St. Pope John Paul II, and it begins by asking, "Why is there evil in the world?" We're not just talking about "bad" people, we're talking Nazis and fascism and war. He doesn't tiptoe around difficult topics, and some answers aren't as clear-cut as many people would like them to be. But it's honest, and its honesty is based in Scripture.
Admittedly, a lot went over my head. I don't know much about European politics (especially those in Poland, which many of the chapters discussed), and some topics may be better understood by those more well-versed in Catholic history. But I still absorbed it.
It ends with a first-hand account of his assassination attempt, which is wild to read about.
Admittedly, a lot went over my head. I don't know much about European politics (especially those in Poland, which many of the chapters discussed), and some topics may be better understood by those more well-versed in Catholic history. But I still absorbed it.
It ends with a first-hand account of his assassination attempt, which is wild to read about.
January 29, 2021
Wow. First time reading anything from JPII and perhaps not the easiest introduction to him. Incredibly deep and reflective. Covers topics of suffering, democracy, culture, nation, patriotism, communism, fascism, etc. Obviously relevant topics always. Takes some time and effort to chew on the depth of his commentary.
Want to read
January 7, 2011Pope Benedict XVI referred to this in his Christmas address to the Roman Curia: http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/ben...
October 11, 2012
This book changed my life after I read a simple comment that suggested modernity is a totalitarian worldview. The very concept blew my mind, but caused me to think more critically about my historical assumptions and also to re-examine my personal values.
April 13, 2016
This reflection by Pope St. John Paul II is beautiful, thought-provoking, and informative. It is an incredible read for Catholics, Eastern European Catholics, and Christians alike. I enjoyed every page. Happy reading!
October 22, 2020
San Juan Pablo II describe, por una serie de preguntas planteadas por un periodista, la historia de Europa, de las ideas y de los gobiernos del continente. Sin desvincular la historia de Europa a su tradición cristiana.
September 5, 2024
Od razu się usprawiedliwię -- moja ocena nie wynika wyłącznie z jakiejś niechęci do autora czy jego przekonań. Naprawdę miałam wobec tej książki spore oczekiwania, bo wyrosłam w przekonaniu że z JPII można się zgadzać lub nie (ja się nie zgadzam) ale filozofem i myślicielem wielkim był. I w sumie dobrze, że będąc u Babci po tę książkę sięgnęłam, bo rozwiało mi to wiele mitów zaszczepionych od dzieciństwa.
Pamięć i tożsamość to po pierwsze redakcyjny potworek, zbiór przemyśleń i fragmentów rozmów nie do końca wiadomo z kim i kiedy przeprowadzonych, opatrzony pytaniami dopisanymi przez redakcję. Te pytania są czołobitne, rozwleczone i nie zawsze mają związek z przytoczoną później odpowiedzią.
Sama treść pozostawia też wiele do życzenia. Dużo tu odwołań do Biblii, soborów watykańskich, MNÓSTWO cytatów do samego siebie. I oddaję papieżowi -- widać jego sporą wiedzę o filozofii i religii katolickiej. Jeśli zaś chodzi o jakiekolwiek nowe wnioski i myśli, tego tu próżno szukać. JPII pisze długo, zawile ale rzadko kiedy potrafi klarownie przedstawić swoje idee.
Nie będę się jakoś znęcać nad tą książką, dorzucę tylko kilka cytatów, które zwaliły mnie z nóg:
A na koniec wisienka na torcie:
Można się zastanawiać, czy napisał to gimnazjalista, pisząc byle co pięć minut przed lekcją czy wielki filozof i myśliciel.
Na koniec tylko wspomnę, że oczywiście pomiędzy tymi światłymi myślami znalazło się miejsce na treści anty-LGBT i anty-kobiece. Tego się akurat spodziewałam.
Naprawdę, szkoda czasu na "Pamięć i tożsamość".
Pamięć i tożsamość to po pierwsze redakcyjny potworek, zbiór przemyśleń i fragmentów rozmów nie do końca wiadomo z kim i kiedy przeprowadzonych, opatrzony pytaniami dopisanymi przez redakcję. Te pytania są czołobitne, rozwleczone i nie zawsze mają związek z przytoczoną później odpowiedzią.
Sama treść pozostawia też wiele do życzenia. Dużo tu odwołań do Biblii, soborów watykańskich, MNÓSTWO cytatów do samego siebie. I oddaję papieżowi -- widać jego sporą wiedzę o filozofii i religii katolickiej. Jeśli zaś chodzi o jakiekolwiek nowe wnioski i myśli, tego tu próżno szukać. JPII pisze długo, zawile ale rzadko kiedy potrafi klarownie przedstawić swoje idee.
Nie będę się jakoś znęcać nad tą książką, dorzucę tylko kilka cytatów, które zwaliły mnie z nóg:
Na Wschodzie przeważają prawosławni. Poza Europą kontynentem najbardziej katolickim jest Ameryka Łacińska. W Ameryce Północnej katolicy stanowią względną większość. Nieco podobna jest sytuacja w Australii i Oceanii. Na kontynencie azjatyckim katolicy są w liczbowej mniejszości. Afryka jest kontynentem misyjnym, gdzie Kościół wciąż czyni znaczne postępy.
Znane jest klasyczne rozróżnienie pomiędzy trzema odmianami ustroju politycznego: monarchią, arystokracją i demokracją. (...) Wedle koncepcji monarchistycznej podmiotem [władzy] jest jakaś jednostka: król, cesarz czy udzielny książę. W systemie arystokratycznym jest nim pewna grupa społeczna, która sprawuje władzę na podstawie szczególnych zasług, na przykład na polu bitwy, pochodzenia czy zamożności. W ustroju demokratycznym natomiast podmiotem władzy jest całe społeczeństwo, cały "lud", po grecku demos.
A na koniec wisienka na torcie:
Polska jest częścią składową Europy. Znajduje się na kontynencie europejskim, na ściśle określonym terytorium.
Można się zastanawiać, czy napisał to gimnazjalista, pisząc byle co pięć minut przed lekcją czy wielki filozof i myśliciel.
Na koniec tylko wspomnę, że oczywiście pomiędzy tymi światłymi myślami znalazło się miejsce na treści anty-LGBT i anty-kobiece. Tego się akurat spodziewałam.
Naprawdę, szkoda czasu na "Pamięć i tożsamość".
November 2, 2017
I bought this book way back when Pope John Paul II died. Somehow I never got around to reading it before now. Way back in 1993 the Pope had a series of meetings and conversations with two Polish philosophers to discuss and analyse Nazism and Communism. These meetings were recorded. This book was based on those meetings and recordings. It was published the year Pope John Paul II died.
I have only given it three stars as in some places, it really is for someone very interested in philosophy. For me, this isn't then really what most people would think it is when reading the title of the book. I found the first section, "The Limit Imposed Upon Evil" a bit difficult to really get into, but the third, "Thinking 'My Country' (Native Land - Nation - State)" much more interesting. The personal perspective as a Polish man who lived through WWII and communism, is rather enlightening and makes me want to learn more about the history of Poland. Perhaps the first section which I found more difficult to be interested in would appeal to me more now that I have gotten used to the tone of the author, but I think I will move on to other books instead of revisiting those chapters.
I have only given it three stars as in some places, it really is for someone very interested in philosophy. For me, this isn't then really what most people would think it is when reading the title of the book. I found the first section, "The Limit Imposed Upon Evil" a bit difficult to really get into, but the third, "Thinking 'My Country' (Native Land - Nation - State)" much more interesting. The personal perspective as a Polish man who lived through WWII and communism, is rather enlightening and makes me want to learn more about the history of Poland. Perhaps the first section which I found more difficult to be interested in would appeal to me more now that I have gotten used to the tone of the author, but I think I will move on to other books instead of revisiting those chapters.
January 29, 2021
Ciekawa książka. Nie trzeba ją przeczytać, by to wiedzieć. Ktoś kto przeżył wielkie zła XX-ego wieku (hitleryzm i komunizm) ma prawo rozmawiać o złu w kontekście dobra i miłości. Nie ulega wątpliwości, że problem zła jest zdecydowanie wielkim problemem, lecz ten problem ma swoje rozwiązanie. Ojciec Święty potrafi o tym mówic i ma do tego prawo, jak już wspomniałem.
Również podobała mi się jego dyskusja o kulturze i patriotyzmie. Definicje tych dwóch rzeczy były pięknie ujęte (nie znam dotąd lepszych definicji), a wpływ nich na ludzi był jeszcze lepiej przedstawiony. Patriotyzm i kultura to wielce ważne rzeczy o których warto walczyć do śmierci. Zapomina się to często w dzisiejszych czasach.
Jedynie co mi się nie podobało to to, że Jan Paweł II potrafi rozmawiąć nie na temat. Czy raczej, mało na temat. Pytania zadawane mu były bardzo ciekawe i czasami Ojciec Święty pozostawiał je na pół nieodpowiedziane. Szkoda, bo to był mądry i doświadczony czlowiek.
Również podobała mi się jego dyskusja o kulturze i patriotyzmie. Definicje tych dwóch rzeczy były pięknie ujęte (nie znam dotąd lepszych definicji), a wpływ nich na ludzi był jeszcze lepiej przedstawiony. Patriotyzm i kultura to wielce ważne rzeczy o których warto walczyć do śmierci. Zapomina się to często w dzisiejszych czasach.
Jedynie co mi się nie podobało to to, że Jan Paweł II potrafi rozmawiąć nie na temat. Czy raczej, mało na temat. Pytania zadawane mu były bardzo ciekawe i czasami Ojciec Święty pozostawiał je na pół nieodpowiedziane. Szkoda, bo to był mądry i doświadczony czlowiek.
January 2, 2023
I have wanted to read this book for a long time, and I finally did! although some of the content is historically dated I think the reflections that John Paul, the second makes maintain a contemporary value. Our culture today is seeing a resurgence of evil that he spoke of in the last chapter New ways of all the evil regimes. The title of memory and identity comes out more clearly in the contents in the very last chapters of the book and it is profound and beautiful to contemplate.
September 17, 2017
Discussions on the impact of Naziism and Communism and their ends on the world in general and Europe and Poland, in particular from the unique perspective of the first pope from Poland, who lived through these regimes and their aftermaths.
January 24, 2023
This work had some interesting insights, but must admit I found some of the chapters a bit too obscure for my taste.
June 28, 2024
Gives a lot of philosophical background of the XXth century history
April 12, 2025
una lee cada cosa para la carrera damn
September 23, 2024
I did not understand much but it was good nevertheless
March 2, 2021
Asombrosa lectura. Es un recorrido a través de la memoria y cultura de Polonia, Europa y en sí, la humanidad, donde resalta una acción misteriosa y a la vez muy concreta: la Misericordia de Dios como límite al mal.
Terminas de leerlo y quieres conocer a profundidad la historia de tu tierra y buscar embellecerla, crear cultura e identidad, recuperando una noción de comunidad.
Terminas de leerlo y quieres conocer a profundidad la historia de tu tierra y buscar embellecerla, crear cultura e identidad, recuperando una noción de comunidad.
April 27, 2009
My first Pope-read.
I very much appreciated the accessibility of the first two sections: "The Limit Imposed upon Evil" and "Freedom and Responsibility." I found these sections a refreshing explanation of why man is/has screwed up, and what to do about it thereafter. I like the inclusion of some philosophical and theological threads that I am not entirely familiar with (Thomistic, etc.), and that I was able to follow along because of the conversational style of writing.
I will admit, I skimmed through most of the final sections. JP II has some interesting things to say about culture, nationalism, patriotism, etc., but they weren't topics I'm entirely engrossed in at the moment. Would be interesting for those wanting to know a little more about European politics or Polish identity.
I very much appreciated the accessibility of the first two sections: "The Limit Imposed upon Evil" and "Freedom and Responsibility." I found these sections a refreshing explanation of why man is/has screwed up, and what to do about it thereafter. I like the inclusion of some philosophical and theological threads that I am not entirely familiar with (Thomistic, etc.), and that I was able to follow along because of the conversational style of writing.
I will admit, I skimmed through most of the final sections. JP II has some interesting things to say about culture, nationalism, patriotism, etc., but they weren't topics I'm entirely engrossed in at the moment. Would be interesting for those wanting to know a little more about European politics or Polish identity.
May 17, 2008
What am I doing reading a book by a religous figure? I'll admit that the only reason I picked this up was JPII's passing and I was feeling nostagic. I wanted to be moved and I wanted to keep the faith that not all of us Polish people are uneducated dimwits from rular Poland. Memory and Identity looked promising. It did not disappoint. It was very poignant, very intelligent, and very human. Please don't misunderstand what this book was; this was essentially a philosophy work written in a modern time. It was philosophy of ethics, of religion, of business. Brilliant. I now get why he was so adored by the masses.
February 7, 2012
I had to read this book in 20 minute increments because the subject matter was waaay over my head. Frankly, I do not have the philosophical or theological background to fully appreciate this book. A little knowledge of Latin would have also been helpful. I'm sure that persons with backgrounds in theology and/or philosophy would have a better appreciation of this book.
June 5, 2011
Why did I even read this? I am not Catholic. I am not any religion. My very devout sister-in-law gave me this book (hint hint). I dutifully read it. I shrugged my shoulders. I donated it.
Currently reading
September 9, 2012Just starting this book. So far so good. I like reading Pope John Paul II; just wish his actions measured up to his writing.
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