Catholic Social Teaching: The Common Good

by Brandon Jubar

We are Sacred and Social

Each of us is special -- created in the image and likeness of God -- and that makes us "sacred". On the other hand, Christ calls us to be together in community -- to be in relationship with one another -- and that makes us "social". In essence, we are both sacred and social. And though we deserve many rights because we are unique creations, the protection of those rights is dependent upon society as a whole.

The Individual and the Common Good

The societies in which we live are becoming ever more interdependent. Advances in communications technology and transportation have brought the peoples of the world closer, for better and for worse. The same advances that make it possible to share knowledge and ideas also increase the influence we have on the lives of others. This makes it ever more imperative that we take into account the needs of others when we make decisions that could affect their lives.

When we take into consideration the needs and aspirations of others, we are starting to focus on the "common good". This is by no means an easy task because it requires that we find a balance between what we think is best for us and what is probably best for others. Being a part of society, therefore, brings with it certain rights as well as certain obligations to the other members of society -- and to society as a whole.

Responsibility to Each Other

Jesus told us to "love our neighbor," which, at first glance, seems to focus on the individual. But unless you have only one neighbor, that command has a much broader meaning. Loving our neighbor means that we, as individuals, have a responsibility to contribute to the good of society as a whole, because everyone is our neighbor!

Talking about the "common good" is an interesting challenge because we have to constantly be cognizant of the fact that society is secondary to the rights of the individual. When speaking of personal sacrifice, it may sound noble to say that the good of the many outweighs the good of the one -- but that's not the case according to Scripture.

Yet doesn't it stand to reason that if we are protecting the rights of every individual -- the least common denominator -- then we truly will be creating the "common good"? For example, if we ensure that each individual has his or her basic needs met (food, clothing, shelter, education, respect, and freedom of religion), isn't society better off as a whole?

Responsibility to Improve

Society and the social order are always in need of improvement, which is why the Church focuses on the "common good". In order for us to be successful at this, we have to have a foundation of truth and justice, brought to life by love for one another.

Christian love is what will fuel our efforts and keep us focused on our goal. The Spirit will work in us and through us to ensure that our decisions are made with the rights of the individual in mind as we strive for a society that upholds the common good.

Life Applications:

When was a time that your needs were put before the needs of the group?
When was a time that the needs of the group took precedence over your personal needs?
What can you do to balance your needs with those of society?

Copyright 2005 by Brandon Jubar
All rights reserved.