Economy and Social Justice
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified
Economy within God's Moral Order (2426)
Economic activity is meant to serve the needs of the human person. Its goal is not merely to multiply goods or increase profit. Economic activity must operate within the moral order by a social justice according to God's plan.
Work as a Duty (2427-2428)
Human work comes from God's call to prolong his original work of creation. Therefore, work is a duty. "If anyone will not work, let him not eat" (2 Thess 3:10). By enduring work, man shares in Christ's cross and redemption.
By work, man fulfills the potential inscribed in his nature. Work is for man, not man for work. Man is both the author and the beneficiary of his work, which should supply what he needs and also benefits the community.
Needed Regulations (2429-2430)
Everyone has a right to use their talents to benefit themselves and others. All have a duty to observe legitimate authority's regulations for the common good.
Economic life involves diverse interests which often lead to conflict. These conflicts should be reduced by negotiations involving owners, workers, and public authorities.
Importance of Public Authority (2431)
Economic activity requires individual freedom, private property, stable currency, and efficient public service. Public authority, therefore, must guarantee this security so man can be encouraged to honest work. The state must also oversee the exercise of human rights, even though this task belongs primarily to individuals and their associations.
Duties of Owners (2432)
Owners are responsible for the economic and ecological effects of their businesses. Although profits are needed to guarantee employment, owners must consider the good of persons and not just their own profits.
Just Wage (2433-2434)
Everyone must have access to employment without discrimination (men and women, healthy and sick, natives and immigrants). Society should help citizens to find work.
To refuse a just wage or to withhold it is a grave injustice. This just wage is determined by the person's contribution and need, as well as the nature of the business and the common good. An agreement between the parties does not morally justify an unjust wage.
Some Moral Questions (2435-2436)
A strike is morally legitimate when it cannot be avoided or is needed to gain a proportionate good. Violence is never morally acceptable. A strike which seeks objectives not linked to work or against the common good is not justified.
Unemployment always wounds the person and entails risks for his family.
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