Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 328 – Part I.

YOUCAT Question n. 328 – Part I. What can the individual contribute to the common good?

(Youcat answer) Working for the common good means assuming responsibility for others.

A deepening through CCC

(CCC 1926) The dignity of the human person requires the pursuit of the common good. Everyone should be concerned to create and support institutions that improve the conditions of human life. (CCC 1913) "Participation" is the voluntary and generous engagement of a person in social interchange. It is necessary that all participate, each according to his position and role, in promoting the common good. This obligation is inherent in the dignity of the human person.      

Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) The common good must be the business of everyone. This happens first of all when men get involved in their particular surroundings—family, neighborhood, workplace—and take responsibility. It is important also to exercise social and political responsibility. Someone who assumes this sort of responsibility, however, wields power and is always in danger of misusing that power. Therefore, everyone in a position of responsibility is called upon to engage in an ongoing process of conversion, so that he can exercise that responsibility for others in lasting justice and charity.

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 1914) Participation is achieved first of all by taking charge of the areas for which one assumes personal responsibility: by the care taken for the education of his family, by conscientious work, and so forth, man participates in the good of others and of society (Cf. CA 43).

(This question: What can the individual contribute to the common good? is continued)