A few days ago I posted on the common good. The common good pertains, of course, to the Social Doctrine of the Church which saw a rapid development in the nineteenth century with the rise of the industrial society. Today, I would like to make a few comments on this Social Doctrine which aspires to right attitudes about earthly goods and socio-economic relationships.
Central to this social doctrine is the inherent dignity of the human person. All economic and social activity are meant to provide for the needs of human beings. Any social or economic activity that subordinates the basic rights of individuals and groups to the economic or social activity itself, is contrary to human dignity. Economic activity is not meant solely to multiply goods produced or profits earned. Thus, economic activity and social justice are closely related.
Human work is a duty for it is done to honor the gifts and talents God has given us. It is a form of prayer, and an expression of worship of God who orders the work of all humans in accord with his divine plan. In our work, we partially fulfill our potential. Thus, everyone has the right to economic initiative, i.e., to make legitimate use of his or her talents to contribute to the common good of all. The civil government must insure individual freedom and the right to private property, a stable currency and adequate public services so as to assure those who work will enjoy the fruits of their labor. Government also must insure that human rights are respected in the economic sector.
Business has the obligation to consider not only legitimate profits, but more importantly, the good of the persons under their employ, and the impact their business activity will have on the economic and ecological environments in which they exist.
Access to employment must be open to all. A just wage is a moral requirement based in justice. To withhold it is a grave injustice. Workers have the obligation to contribute to the social security of other citizens, not just their own.
I will post more on this topic in the future. I find that many Catholics have no real understanding of the Church’s teaching in these areas. You will find that the Church is neither “conservative” or “liberal” in her social doctrine. She is both. Her teaching in this aspect of Christian living is extremely challenging for all of us.
