| 1917 It is incumbent on those who exercise authority to strengthen the values that inspire the confidence of the members of the group and encourage them to put themselves at the service of others. Participation begins with education and culture. "One is entitled to think that the future of humanity is in the hands of those who are capable of providing the generations to come with reasons for life and optimism." |
| 1918 "There is no authority except from God, and those authorities that exist have been instituted by God" (Rom 13:1). |
| 1919 Every human community needs an authority in order to endure and develop. |
| 1920 "The political community and public authority are based on human nature and therefore . . . belong to an order established by God" (GS 74 § 3). |
| 1921 Authority is exercised legitimately if it is committed to the common good of society. To attain this it must employ morally acceptable means. |