Catholic social teaching and the critique of Zambia as a Christian state: from 1991 to 2001.

Abstract

This study delves into the complex relationship between Catholic social teaching and Zambia's declaration as a Christian state. It underscores the importance of maintaining the separation of church and state relations while advocating for constructive dialogue, respect for religious freedom, human dignity: the common good: human rights: participation in economic, political, social an cultural life of society: promotion of peace: solidarity and subsidiarity. The research draws on key encyclicals, such as Mater et Magistra, Pacem in Terris, Dignitatis Humanae (a conciliar document), Populorum Progressio, Octogesima Adveniens, and Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, as essential references for critiquing and engaging with the Christian state declaration. These encyclicals address a wide range of religious, social, political, and ethical issues and offer valuable guidance for the Catholic Church.

The research methodology employed is characterized by a case study approach, which is well- suited for exploring the 'how' and 'why' questions and is ideal for interpretive paradigm of investigations. This approach allows for a deep examination of the intricate dynamics at play in the interaction between the Catholic social teaching and Christian state declaration.

The study's findings emphasize the necessity of fostering a robust dialogue and debate regarding the Christian state declaration. It stresses the significance of maintaining a clear division between the church and the state relations, while encouraging the church to provide constructive criticism and engage with governance processes. This dialogue is crucial for safeguarding religious freedom, human rights, social justice, and the right to participate in governance.

Furthermore, the study highlights the profound influence of the Catholic social teaching on various aspects, including the Christian state declaration, church-state relations, governance, and democratic practices in Zambia. To analyze these findings, a conceptual framework was utilized, incorporating philosophical hermeneutical concepts such as the "Fusion of Horizons" and Wirkungsgeschichte (Effect of History) by Gadamer, as well as the hermeneutical foundation of the "Normativity of the Future" by Bieringer and the "Emphatic Dialogue of Church-State models." These conceptual tools are essential components of the interpretive paradigm, which employs specific criteria, like theme categorization, to evaluate research findings.

The interpretive assessment method was employed to thoroughly analyze the literature and data collected. This interpretative paradigm aims to understand phenomena from the participants' perspective rather than that of an objective observer, giving precedence to a subjective viewpoint in comprehending the data. On an axiological level, the interpretive paradigm prioritizes relevance over strict rigor.

In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between religion, governance, and societal harmony within the context of Zambia. It underscores the potential for the Catholic social teaching to serve as a guiding influence in the country's democratic practices and emphasizes the importance of respectful and constructive interactions between the church and the state to address contemporary challenges. These findings provide a foundational understanding for scholars and advocates interested in the ongoing discourse regarding the Catholic social

teaching and its implications for Christian state declaration, church-state relations and democratic governance in Zambia.