WOF 471: How to Reclaim Civil Society for the Common Good
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Jan 6, 2025
Explore the cultural shift favoring Catholic social thought in the U.S. and its implications for the common good. Discover how the Church can address urgent issues like education, immigration, and the economy by balancing moral principles with practical judgments. Delve into the tensions between Catholic social justice and progressive ideologies that prioritize a perfect society. Lastly, ponder a listener's question about the kingdom of God and its relevance in today's political and social landscape.
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Visit to Alma Mater
Bishop Barron recently visited Catholic University of America, his alma mater.
He joyfully reconnected with his mentor, Monsignor Sokolowski, who significantly influenced his thinking.
insights INSIGHT
Religion's Role in Public Life
Religion should not be excluded from the public sphere, as faith influences all aspects of life.
The Founding Fathers recognized the importance of moral and spiritual principles in a democratic society.
insights INSIGHT
Defining the Common Good
The common good is the set of social conditions that allow individuals to flourish.
It's not a simple utilitarian calculation, but a nuanced consideration of basic human goods.
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Pope John Paul II's encyclical "Centesimus Annus" reflects on the 100th anniversary of Pope Leo XIII's Rerum Novarum. It addresses the social and economic challenges of the late 20th century, particularly the fall of communism and the rise of globalization. The encyclical affirms the importance of a market economy while emphasizing the need for ethical and social considerations. It critiques both unrestrained capitalism and collectivist systems, advocating for a model that respects human dignity and promotes the common good. John Paul II stresses the importance of solidarity, subsidiarity, and the role of the state in ensuring social justice. The encyclical remains a significant contribution to Catholic social teaching, offering guidance for navigating the complexities of modern economic systems.
Rerum novarum
Leo XIII Pope
Joseph Kirwan
Pope Leo XIII's encyclical "Rerum Novarum" is a landmark document in Catholic social teaching. Issued in 1891, it addressed the social and economic problems arising from the Industrial Revolution, particularly the plight of workers. The encyclical condemned both laissez-faire capitalism and socialism, advocating for a more just and humane economic system. It affirmed the dignity of labor, the right of workers to form unions, and the role of the state in protecting workers' rights. Rerum Novarum established key principles of Catholic social thought, including the importance of subsidiarity, the common good, and the dignity of the human person. It remains a foundational text for Catholic social teaching and continues to inspire efforts to promote social justice and economic fairness.
The idea of a university
St. John Henry Newman
John Henry Newman's "The Idea of a University" is a seminal work on higher education, exploring the nature of knowledge, the role of universities in society, and the importance of a liberal education. Newman emphasizes the pursuit of truth for its own sake, arguing that universities should foster intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. He highlights the unity of knowledge, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various disciplines. The book remains highly influential in shaping discussions about the purpose and function of universities. It's a classic text for anyone interested in the philosophy of education.
A cultural shift seems to be underway, at least within the United States, that is potentially making society more open—perhaps even more positively disposed—to the wisdom of the Catholic social thought tradition. If there is an opportunity for Catholic teachings to have more cultural and political traction now, how should the Church take advantage of it? What counsel can the Church give on complex policy issues like education, immigration, the economy, and foreign policy? Today we discuss the Catholic understanding of the common good and how it is especially relevant in this moment.
A listener asks, what is the kingdom of God?
00:00 | Intro 01:41 | Bishop Barron visits a mentor 02:52 | Religion: public or private? 06:56 | Assessing recent shifts in culture 08:09 | Common good vs. utilitarianism 10:49 | Dignity vs. autonomy 14:35 | Common good vs. social justice 18:37 | Common good vs. generic conservatism 21:25 | Nonnegotiable moral principles vs. variable prudential judgments 24:27 | Common good and education 28:23 | Common good and the economy 30:30 | Common good and immigration 33:38 | Common good and foreign policy 35:38 | Listener question: What is the kingdom of God? 37:38 | Join the Word on Fire Institute
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