Two Canadian researchers, Serge Larivie and Geneviève Chenard, shook the religious and humanitarian world by publishing an article in the journal Sciences Religieuses where they questioned the impeccable reputation of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Their findings suggested that the revered figure did not help the sick and poor of Calcutta as much as was believed.
Critical Analysis of Mother Teresa’s Management in Charitable Organizations
As investigative journalists, it is essential to highlight that Larivie and Chenard conducted a meticulous scrutiny of more than 300 documents related to the life and work of Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu, the real name of the Albanian nun. “The description was so hyperbolic that it piqued our curiosity,” stated Larivie, which led them to delve beyond the public image disseminated by the media and the Catholic Church.
The researchers did not directly question her beatification in 2003 but pointed out aspects that, according to them, the Vatican might have overlooked. Among these, they highlighted her peculiar way of attending to the sick, her controversial political connections and the opaque management of the millions in funds she received.
Ethical Perspective on Patient Care
From an ethical standpoint, it is concerning to learn that the 517 missions founded by Mother Teresa in more than 100 countries functioned more as houses of refuge for the dying than as health centers. The conditions were deficient: lack of hygiene, inadequate facilities and absence of analgesics to relieve the pain of terminal patients.
This raises serious questions about dignity in patient care. Is it morally acceptable to offer shelter without guaranteeing adequate medical attention? Medical ethics hold that alleviating suffering is fundamental and the omission of analgesics contradicts this basic principle.
Moreover, they criticize that during natural disasters in India, instead of offering economic aid, Mother Teresa limited herself to providing prayers and images of the Virgin Mary. This approach raises doubts about the real effectiveness of her help in times of crisis.
Analysis from Religious Studies
It is pertinent to analyze how Mother Teresa’s actions aligned with the principles of compassion and charity promoted by the Catholic Church. Her dogmatic stance on issues like abortion, contraceptives and divorce might have limited access to basic reproductive health services, especially affecting women in vulnerable situations.
On the other hand, her relationships with controversial political figures, such as accepting the Legion of Honor medal and a grant from the Haitian dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier, generate questions about the coherence between her spiritual mission and her actions in the political sphere. Could these alliances have compromised the fundamental values she promoted?
Opacity in the Management of Donations
From a journalistic perspective, the opacity in financial management is an aspect that cannot be ignored. Despite receiving hundreds of millions of euros in donations, the foundation’s bank accounts were secret and there is no clarity about the destination of those funds. This fact raises questions like: Where did those millions destined for “the poorest of the poor” go?
The lack of financial transparency can undermine public trust in charitable organizations and divert resources that could alleviate the suffering of many people. It is fundamental that such organizations operate with high standards of responsibility and accountability.
Ethical Impact on the Community
It is important to reflect on the impact that these revelations have on the perception of figures considered exemplary. Idealizing individuals without adequate scrutiny can conceal uncomfortable truths and perpetuate questionable practices. Recognizing human failures does not diminish positive contributions, but allows for a more complete and honest understanding.
Additionally, it is crucial to consider how the actions of religious leaders influence the practices and beliefs of their followers. The adoption of extreme positions can have negative consequences in already vulnerable communities. A more balanced approach could have broadened the reach and effectiveness of her humanitarian work.
The Legacy from the Perspective of Religious Studies
Despite the criticisms, it is undeniable that the figure of Mother Teresa has inspired countless people and organizations to engage in humanitarian work. “If her extraordinary image in the collective imagination has inspired initiatives that truly helped those oppressed by poverty, that is something to celebrate,” admitted Larivie.
From religious studies, it is essential to recognize the symbolic power that figures like Mother Teresa have in mobilizing positive actions. However, it is also important to foster a critical analysis that allows distinguishing between myth and reality, promoting an informed and conscious faith. Only in this way can we ensure that actions are truly aligned with the ethical and spiritual principles proclaimed.
Importance of Transparency and Ethics
As journalists, ethicists and scholars of religion, it is our responsibility to promote transparency and ethics in all spheres. The media’s treatment of public figures must be rigorous, avoiding unfounded glorification and ensuring that the public receives truthful and balanced information.
Constructive criticism and scrutiny are fundamental tools to improve the practices of organizations and individuals. Only through open and well-founded dialogue can we advance toward a more just and compassionate society. It is essential that charitable organizations maintain high levels of transparency to preserve public trust and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.
Conclusion
The research of Larivie and Chenard invites a deep reflection on how we construct and perpetuate myths around certain personalities. It is essential to balance the recognition of positive contributions with a critical understanding of their actions and decisions.
In the end, transparency, ethics and commitment to the truth are values that should guide religious leaders, charitable organizations and media outlets alike. Only thus can we ensure that efforts aimed at helping those most in need truly fulfill their purpose, fostering a culture of genuine responsibility and solidarity.
For more information on ethics in charitable organizations, visit Transparency International. To delve deeper into the role of religion in contemporary society, consult the Institute of Studies on Religions and the Modern World. And for a detailed journalistic analysis, read the original article in Sciences Religieuses.
