The Expression of Catholic Social Thought in Kaunas Diocese (Beginning of the XX Century)

摘要

The article analyses the circumstances and characteristics of the expression of the Catholic social thought in Kaunas Diocese. The Catholic intellectual and organizational forces and their main activity trends as well as results are discussed with reference to the literature and the critical analysis of historical sources. It is demonstrated that Catholic sociologists of Kaunas Diocese were united by one common feature?– efforts to harmonize social theory with practice. While analyzing social issues and, especially, proposing the solution to, they relied not only on theory but also on sobriety and historic wisdom of the nation. Consequently, it is possible to conclude that their theoretical considerations, first of all, had to ground social activity. On the other hand, subjective indicators also influenced the situation. Those were the people with wide interests who expressed themselves in various spheres of scientific and social life. Some of them tried to analyse social problems theoretically, however they constantly watched them through concrete social phenomena and realia (A. Kaupas, S. ?ult?). Others expressed themselves not only in the sociological sphere but also in pedagogical, psychological, philosophical and economic areas (A. Jak?tas-Dambrauskas, J. Matulaitis, M. Reinys, K. Paltarokas, F. Kem??is). Yet another group founded societies, supported consumer companies and took an active part in their activity (K. Ol?auskas, P. Janu?evi?ius, M. Krupavi?ius, J. Vailokaitis). Despite of the variety of social interests, Catholic sociologists were united by the common goal: while developing a regular critical viewpoint to social phenomena in order to serve Lithuania and its people, they fostered the hope for restoration of the independence and provided for the independent and responsible activity. Article in Lithuanian