323 SUBSIDIARITY

YOUCAT Lesson 323

YOUCAT the catechism for Catholic youth

323  How can the individual be integrated into society in such a way that he nevertheless can develop freely?

The individual can develop freely in society if the “principle of subsidiarity” is observed.  [1883-1885, 1894]

Subsidiarity:  “a community of a higher order should not interfere in the internal life of a community of a lower order, depriving the latter of its functions, but rather should support it in case of need and help to co- ordinate its activity with the activities of the rest of society, always with a view to the common good.” –see CCC #1883 below …..323

The principle of subsidiarity, which was developed as part of Catholic Social Teaching, states, (that which) individuals can accomplish by their own initiative and efforts should not be taken from them by a higher authority.  A greater and higher social institution must not take over the duties of a subordinate organization and deprive it of its competence.  Its purpose, rather, is to intervene in a subsidiary fashion (thus offering help) when individuals or smaller institutions find that a task is beyond them.

Catholic Social Teaching/Social Principles: (These are) four central principles of personhood, the common good, solidarity, and subsidiarity. They are the Church’s teaching about the ordering of life in society and about the attainment of individual and social justice. 

1883-1885, 1894

THE PERSON AND SOCIETY

THE COMMUNAL CHARACTER OF THE HUMAN VOCATION

1883 Socialization also presents dangers. Excessive intervention by the state can threaten personal freedom and initiative. The teaching of the Church has elaborated the principle of subsidiarity, according to which "a community of a higher order should not interfere in the internal life of a community of a lower order, depriving the latter of its functions, but rather should support it in case of need and help to co- ordinate its activity with the activities of the rest of society, always with a view to the common good."( Centesimus Annus 48 § 4; compare Pius XI, Quadragesimo anno I,184-186.)⁷  --Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition

1884 God has not willed to reserve to himself all exercise of power. He entrusts to every creature the functions it is capable of performing, according to the capacities of its own nature. This mode of governance ought to be followed in social life. The way God acts in governing the world, which bears witness to such great regard for human freedom, should inspire the wisdom of those who govern human communities. They should behave as ministers of divine providence. –CCC

1885 The principle of subsidiarity is opposed to all forms of collectivism. It sets limits for state intervention. It aims at harmonizing the relationships between individuals and societies. It tends toward the establishment of true international order. –CCC

IN BRIEF

1894 In accordance with the principle of subsidiarity, neither the state nor any larger society should substitute itself for the initiative and responsibility of individuals and intermediary bodies. --CCC