Catholic Moral Teaching Web Assignment



Take "The Ten Building Blocks of Catholic Social Teaching." List and expalain each. Then tell if you believe each.

1. The Principle of Human Dignity - This teaching is the foundation for all of the rest. Every person, regardless of any details that differentiate them, is entitled to our respect simply by virtue of being a human. No person is ever left out of this social teaching; all should be respected equally. I absolutely believe this principle.

2. The Principle of Respect for Human Life - Every single human life regardless of age, health, or any other details, is worthy of respect and should never be harmed. This principle is necessary for any just society. I believe in this principle in most cases but not always. For example, in a case such as Nancy Cruzan's I believe in letting the person die. It's rather complicated and I believe that each case should be examined individually.

3. The Principle of Association - Since the family is the "centerpiece of society," it must be protected at all times. Families, and other social groups, should promote good. Through this good we are free to fufill ourselves. I believe in this principle, but i find it somwhat ambiguous. I'm not sure exactly what respect for the family implies. I agree that it's entitled to respect but am uncertain as to what other things it takes precedence over.

4. The Principle of Participation - There are certain social institutions that are beneficial for people to take part in. No one should be denied the chance to participate in them. It applies especially to working. Work should foster growth. Everyone should have fair wages and good working conditions available, as well as the freedom to join unions. I believe in this principle.

5. The Principle of Preferential Protection for the Poor and Vulnerable - Jesus taught that we treat the least of His people how we would treat Him. In addition to individual moral reasons, helping the poor encourages growth in the entire community. Good can't triumph if common people fail to help those less fortunate then themselves. I believe in this principle.

6. The Principle of Solidarity - We must love our neighbors not only on a personal level, but a worldwide scale as well. All people and all nations are entitled to solidarity. I belive in this principle.

7. The Principle of Stewardship - All men and women have an obligation to serve the environment. Whether it be helping to fix the damage thats been done already or preventing further damage, every person should do their part to help. The principle of stewardship also applies to individuals. Just as we should protect the gift we've been given in the earth, we should also protect our individual gifts such as health, talents, etc.. I believe in this principle but the article is rather ambiguous as to how far reaching it is when applying to our personal bodies and lives.

8. The Principle of Subsidiarity - The government must have limits. In no cases should it's functions be performed at a high level when it can be handled equally well at a low level. No government should be oppressive or overactive. I believe in this principle.

9. The Principle of Human Equality - This is the simple principle that all people should be treated fairly and justly at all times regardless of their race, religion, sex, etc.. As the article says, all people feel an ethical urge to treat others fairly, it's important for us to follow this urge. I believe in this principle.

10. The Principle of the Common Good - The bishops describe the common good as simply the "social conditions that allow people to reach their full human potential and to realize their human dignity." This isn't something easy to define or institute, but it's an ideal to strive for. Situations should be constantly examined to make sure that they're striving for good. I believe in this principle as an ideal. I can't imagine a society that perfectly embodies it but I believe it should be considered by all people as something to strive for.

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