Olives, Lanz Aidan L. G02/ TH 0900-1030Labor Standards Law Atty. Añonuevo

“Social Justice”

"None of us can think we are exempt from concerns for the poor and for social

justice. The measure of the greatness of a society is found in the way it treats those

most in need, those who have nothing apart from their poverty!" -Pope Francis, The

Joy of the Gospel, 2013, Ch.4, #201

This inspiring quote of Pope Francis tells us that social justice is about

empowering those who are less fortunate in life. Social justice is not just a natural

law but also an obligation to the society to give more to those people who need

more. Furthermore, social justice is the foundation of a great nation.

“Those who have less in life should have more in law” –Ramon Magsaysay

The core principle of social justice is equality, and we could attain equality

through the proper legislation of laws that promote the welfare of the less fortunate.

The law must be used in ensuring that there are more work opportunities to the

starving working class of the Philippine society. Up to now, this definition of social

justice is still relevant since the problems faced during Magsaysay’s time are still

prevalent today.

Comparison

I have noticed that the definitions by famous people and Fr. Bernas all tell us

the same thing. Social justice is not only equality through economic means but also

equality on different social rights. This may include equality on spiritual, social,

economic, and political opportunities. Lastly, social justice is also about favoring

those who are disadvantaged in life. In my own words, social justice is empowering

the powerless.