Humani Generis (Encyclical on Evolution)

Humani Generis - written August 12, 1950 by Pope Pius XII, to serve as a reminder to the faithful as to the proper intellectual, philosophical, and faith approach and disposition to study, debate, and teaching on controversial issues that may arise in the public square. The encyclical serves as a reminder of earlier encyclicals by Pope Leo XIII and Pope Benedict XV, that address a similar topic - faithful adherence to the sacred Teaching Authority of the Church. Humani Generis then specifically relates this call to faithfulness to the controversy over evolution, which has appeared as a hot topic of debate in the secular and religious arenas. Since evolution brings into question man's origins and thus the authority, omnipotence and sovereignty of God, the faithful are warned of the danger of the philosophies evolution has introduced into society and public debate. The encyclical calls upon all the faithful to be on guard against imprudence when studying, arguing, or expounding upon such issues lest they fall into error and lead others into spiritual ruin. Thorough outline of the encyclical is included. 8.5 x 11 inches. Stapled sheets. 18 pp.