Subsidiarity

Subsidiarity means that higher-level institutions, like the State, should not take over tasks that individuals and smaller communities can do themselves; instead, they should recognize, protect, and promote their freedom and creativity. In Catholic Social Teaching, subsidiarity recognizes that persons, families, and intermediary organizations (such as neighborhoods, associations, schools, and charities) have their own proper responsibilities that should not be unnecessarily taken over by higher authorities. Pope Leo XIV notes in his encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, that “neither the individual nor the family should be subsumed by the State, but should be allowed to act freely, as far as possible, without harming the common good.” It is the role of the State to intervene when necessary, but never to permanently take over the responsibilities of families, lower-level organizations, and social institutions. Subsidiarity also means that decisions should be made at the lowest competent level, allowing those most directly affected to participate in promoting the common good.

“Whoever does not provide for relatives, and especially for family members, has denied the faith…”

1. How does the principle of subsidiarity protect the role of families and local communities, and when is it appropriate for the State to intervene?
2. What is one practical decision that could be made at the family, parish, school, or local community level instead of by a higher authority? How would this promote the common good?