Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 323 – Part II.

YOUCAT Question n. 323 – Part II. How can the individual be integrated into society in such a way that he nevertheless can develop freely?

(Youcat answer - repeated)  The individual can develop freely in society if the “principle of subsidiarity” is observed.    

 A deepening through CCC

(CCC 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.

Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) The principle of subsidiarity, which was developed as part of Catholic Social Teaching, states: What 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.

(CCC Comment)

(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.

(The next question is: On what principles does a society build?)