Social Justice: Catholic Themes

Social Justice

Social Justice concerns itself with our responsibility to ensure that all people are given a ‘fair go’.

Some issues that social justice aims to cover are;

Ø  Poverty

Ø  Child Labour

Ø  Refugees

Ø  Homelessness

Ø  Hunger

Dignity of the Human Person

Dignity- human dignity is the foundation of Catholic Social teaching. This is based on the idea that the person is made in the image of God.

Question

2. In your own words explain what is meant by human dignity?

Human dignity is having self –respect and decency in yourself and for others.

Common Good and Community

Humans are sacred and social, we have and achieve together, and humans must be valued in the wider community.

Option for the Poor

Society must consider and help the poor. Governments especially, must help the poor.

Questions

1. Give an example of a community that you are a part of.  

I’m part of the Stella Maris community, netball team and futsal team.                                                                         

2. How is the community both sacred and social?

The community is sacred and social because as one we are stronger, able to support each other and live out the word of God together.

3. What is the major test of a moral society?

The society should be democratic, people with special needs should be given attention and wealth should be distributed equally.

4. In what way does our community look after the poor?

Donations are given and charity organisations are helping the poor.

Rights and Responsibilities

Human dignity can be protected only if human rights and responsibilities are met. These rights include food, shelter, clothing employment, health care and education. Our responsibilities are to one another, our families and to the larger society.

Role of Government

People have the right and responsibility to participate in political institutions s the government can achieve its goals and human dignity can be promoted.

Economic Justice

In the economy workers have a right to productive work, decent/fair wages, safe working conditions, to join/organize unions, economic initiative and private property; people aren’t allowed to amass excessive wealth when others lack basic necessities.

Stewardship of God’s Creation

When we use the world’s goods we have to respect them as God’s gifts. We have a responsibility to care for these goods as stewards and trustees, not as mere consumers and users.

Promotion of Peace and Disarmament

Peace and justice is dependent upon right order among people. "Peace is not just the absence of war. It involves mutual respect and confidence between peoples and nations. It involves collaboration and binding agreements.”

Participation

It is a demand of justice, requirement of human dignity and a right that everyone should be able to participate in economic, political and cultural life in the community.

Global Solidarity and Development

Global development must respect and promote personal, social, economic and political rights. Countries should be equally developed and wealth should be shared.

Questions

2. Why is it wrong to exclude people from participating in society?

Because there should be equality in the world, everyone should have equal rights and be able to have a say on what happens in their community.