The Church’s Social Doctrine is the body of teachings that articulates the Church’s position on social, economic, and political issues. Based on divine revelation, tradition, and reason, the Church’s Social Doctrine is not a political program but a guide for social action that seeks to build a society based on human dignity, solidarity, and subsidiarity. Through encyclicals, letters, and exhortations, the Popes have developed a rich teaching that addresses the challenges of each era, from the Industrial Revolution to the age of globalization.
Dignity of the Human Person: The principle of human dignity is the foundation of all the Church’s Social Doctrine. Every person is created in the image and likeness of God and therefore has an intrinsic value that must be respected and protected. The Church maintains that the economy, politics, and culture must serve the integral development of every person.
The Common Good: The common good is the set of conditions that enables all people to attain their human fulfillment. This means that social institutions must promote justice, peace, and development. For the Church, the common good is not only material well-being but also the spiritual and moral fulfillment of every individual.
Solidarity: Solidarity is the principle that emphasizes the interdependence of all people and communities. The Church teaches that solidarity is not merely a feeling of compassion but a moral duty to help those most in need and work for a more just world.
Subsidiarity: The principle of subsidiarity holds that decisions should be made at the level closest to the people affected, allowing local communities to organize themselves and take responsibility for their own development. Subsidiarity promotes local autonomy and prevents excessive centralization and bureaucracy.
