| 1892 "The human person . . . is and ought to be the principle, the subject, and the object of every social organization" (GS 25 § 1). |
| 1893 Widespread participation in voluntary associations and institutions is to be encouraged. |
| 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. |
| 1895 Society ought to promote the exercise of virtue, not obstruct it. It should be animated by a just hierarchy of values. |
| 1896 Where sin has perverted the social climate, it is necessary to call for the conversion of hearts and appeal to the grace of God. Charity urges just reforms. There is no solution to the social question apart from the Gospel (cf. CA 3, 5). |