Development of the ‘Whole’ Person and ‘For Every’ Person? Populorum Progressio, 14 and Development in Ghana

Abstract

Much emphasis is put on economic growth as an indicator for development. Unfavourable economic indicators signal less growth in development, whereas favourable economic indicators of a nation signify attainment of growth. The encyclical letter, Populorum Progressio written by Pope Paul VI in 1967, calls for an integral development with the person at the centre. This paper presents a historical survey of development in Ghana to see how it accords with the Christian vision of development as enshrined in Populorum Progressio. It examines how the trends of economic development in Ghana mirror the Christian vision of development recommended by the encyclical. The paper argues that favourable economic indicators do not necessarily reflect the Christian vision of development. It submits that the economic development of the nation must correspond to the well-being of the ‘whole’ person and ‘for every’ person.