In Catholic Social Teaching (CST), The Common Good refers to the conditions and structures that allow all individuals and communities to reach their fullest potential and live a flourishing, dignified life. It is a central principle in CST, closely tied to Human Dignity and Social Justice. The concept emphasises the shared responsibility of individuals, communities, and governments to ensure that the well-being of all people is promoted, especially those who are most vulnerable.

1. The Well-being of All People

• Inclusivity: The common good is not just about the interests of one person or a particular group, but about ensuring the well-being of all members of society. It means creating conditions that allow every person to thrive—physically, morally, and spiritually.
• Integral Human Development: The Common Good involves the development of all dimensions of a person’s life: material (economic needs), social (community and relationships), and spiritual (faith and moral growth). This holistic view emphasises that the good of individuals is interconnected with the good of others.
   

2. Conditions for Human Flourishing

• Access to Basic Needs: The common good involves ensuring access to essential resources such as food, clean water, healthcare, housing, education, and employment. It also includes the protection of basic rights such as freedom, justice, and the ability to participate fully in society.
• Peace and Security: A society that promotes the common good strives to maintain peace, law, and order, creating a stable environment where individuals and families can live and work without fear of violence, exploitation, or injustice.
   

3. Solidarity

• Shared Responsibility: Solidarity is at the heart of the common good. It calls for individuals and groups to care for one another, especially those who are poor, marginalised, or suffering. Solidarity involves recognising that everyone’s dignity is interconnected, and the flourishing of one person contributes to the flourishing of all.
• Common Responsibility: It’s not just about government or institutions providing for the common good; individuals and communities are called to actively participate in building up the common good through acts of service, charity, and advocacy for justice.
   

4. Social Justice and Rights

• Respect for Rights: The Common Good requires that individual rights be respected, such as the right to life, liberty, education, and freedom of conscience. These rights are not just for individuals but also for the communities to which they belong.
• Justice for All: True justice is a key part of The Common Good. This involves addressing inequalities, promoting fairness, and ensuring that all people, especially the poor and vulnerable, are treated with dignity and have the opportunities they need to flourish.
   

5. Participation

• Active Engagement: Everyone has a right and responsibility to participate in shaping society and contributing to The Common Good. This includes involvement in political, social, and economic life. Public policies should be designed in ways that promote participation and voice for all, especially marginalised groups.
• Democracy and Governance: A key expression of The Common Good is democratic participation, where the government is responsible for creating and maintaining conditions that promote the well-being of all people. Governments are tasked with providing justice, peace, and the protection of human dignity.
   

6. Subsidiarity

• Supporting Local Communities: The principle of subsidiarity, closely related to the common good, states that issues should be addressed at the most local level possible. Decisions should be made by those closest to the problem, allowing individuals, families, and local communities to take responsibility for their own well-being.
• Limiting Overreach: While the state or higher authorities should intervene when necessary, particularly when individuals or smaller groups cannot protect their own rights or dignity, they should not overstep or undermine the autonomy and agency of smaller communities.
   

7. Environmental Stewardship

• Care for Creation: The Common Good also extends to caring for the environment, as the earth’s resources are shared by all people and should be used sustainably to ensure that future generations can also thrive. Protecting the environment is essential for the well-being of both present and future generations.
   

8. The Role of the State and Society

• Governments’ Duty: The state has a particular responsibility to promote The Common Good by ensuring laws, policies, and systems that protect and promote human dignity, justice, and equality. This includes creating structures that prevent inequality, exploitation, and marginalisation.
• Private Sector and Civil Society: The Common Good also calls for the active participation of businesses, organizations, and individuals in contributing to societal well-being. Ethical business practices, volunteerism, and civic engagement all play a role in The Common Good.
   

9. Peacemaking and Global Solidarity

• Global Responsibility: The Common Good extends beyond national borders. The Church calls for international solidarity, especially in helping nations and peoples that suffer from poverty, injustice, or war. The global community is called to work together for peace, justice, and development worldwide.