Abellanosa

However, this is more of a means rather than an end. The “telos” or the end of democracy is the “common good.” This is not the same with the good of the ruling party or the state understood in fascist terms as the dictator himself. The common good contemplates things and persons in light of higher principles and virtues.

On the other hand, we must also be worried with political slogans and propaganda that seek to promote national interests at the expense of human dignity and social justice. We see this in many creeping dictatorships or authoritarian regimes. At first, themes like “change” and “for the masses” are used as the attractions.

For people who are desperate to receive even crumbs for the sake of survival, giving in to the promises is an irresistible temptation. But we must be wary of whatever political promise because even virtues like “unity” can be used for ideological ends.

Precisely why Pope Francis, again, reminds us: “a concept of popular and national unity influenced by various ideologies is creating new forms of selfishness and a loss of the social sense under the guise of defending national i nt er est s.”

The breaking of the bread on Holy Thursday should make us remember that more than the bread that we desire for everyone, it is solidarity that will truly make us survive even the most challenging hunger. And if only we would think for one another, we would find ways to share what we have. But this does not just mean being charitable and philanthropically. We need to think with and for those who may not be as fortunate as we are.

This may mean making political choices that are beneficial not just to us but those who are in society’s most disadvantaged sectors.