Solidarity, Subsidiarity, and Social Justice Principles

The Principle of Solidarity

We are all responsible for helping others, protecting and caring for vulnerable people. If we practiced generosity, there might not be a need for the extensive welfare systems we have. Solidarity particularly highlights the intrinsic social nature of the human person, the equality of all in dignity and rights, and the common path of individuals and peoples towards an ever more committed unity. Solidarity represents a moral value to pursue the common good and social virtue, aiming to achieve justice.

The Principle of Subsidiarity

Governments should not intervene in problems that can be resolved effectively by families or lower-level associations. The State has a role of guidance and protection; it should be at the service of the family and intermediate groups. However, if a family or group lacks the means to provide for itself, the government or higher authorities must assist. The principle of subsidiarity protects people from abuses by higher-level social authorities and calls on these same authorities to help individuals and intermediate groups fulfill their duties. This principle is imperative because every person, family, and intermediate group has something original to offer the community. Denying subsidiarity limits and can destroy freedom and initiative. Putting the principle of subsidiarity into practice requires:

• Respect for the human person and the family.
• Effective promotion of the human person and the family.

The Principle of Social Justice

According to the Catholic Church, social justice is respect for the human person and the rights which flow from human dignity and guarantee it. Society must provide the conditions that allow people to obtain what is their due, according to their nature and vocation. The principle of social justice is applied to guarantee the common good. This means society must provide us with what we deserve, ensuring those provisions respect the common good and the principle of social justice itself. Social justice also involves respecting human rights and striving for an equitable society free from discrimination. Society ensures social justice when it provides the conditions that allow associations or individuals to obtain what is their due, according to their nature and their vocation. Social justice is intrinsically linked to the common good and the exercise of authority.