Social Justice

Chapter 24

Human beings are social beings – the choices

we make affect others. We are accountable for the things we commit

(commission) and those we fail to do (omission)

As created in the image of the Trinity (God) –

which is a communion of persons, humans are called to be in communion with one another.

All humans possess dignity and have infinite value.

All humans belong to a society. Societies are called by God to defend human

life by ensuring that basic human needs and rights are met (food, water, shelter, protection etc.). This is the task of social justice.

Social Justice

See page 266 of the text Jesus reminds us that ignoring social needs is

just the same as causing them.

Biblical Roots

Catholic social

doctrine – the body of teaching by the Church on economic and social matters that includes moral judgments and demands for action in favor of those being harmed.

Principles of Catholic Social Teachings

Four Key Concepts

Definition – social conditions that allow for all

people to meet basic needs and fulfillment. Things that promote the common good –

families supported by government and institutions, fair economic and social policies, etc.

The Common Good

The State has the duty to defend and promote the common

good. Laws and political structures must ensure that people are

free to live moral lives. People the fundamental right to life, and those things

necessary for human decency: food, shelter, safety, health care, education, employment – these are basic human rights.

People have the right to participate in the decisions that affect their lives.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights drafted by the United Nations affirms these basic human rights for all people.

Responsibility of Political Authority

Love and respect for

others, especially for the most vulnerable in our society – i.e. the unborn, homeless, elderly, the immigrants etc.

Human Dignity

All men and women are our brothers and

sisters. We have the responsibility to share our

resources with one another. We have to find ways that include not exclude. We need to create a society that encourages

people to be generous and just.

Human Solidarity

Social Justice can only be achieved when

individuals are encouraged and have the opportunity to cultivate virtues.

Without justice in the soul, there will be no justice in the land.

An encylclical is an

authoritative teachings letter issued by the Pope to the entire Church.

A social encyclical is a an encyclical that addresses issues of social justice, peace, human rights, solidarity, and the common good.

See page 269

Social Encyclicals