Who's In Charge Here?

Catholic perspectives on human government are informed by a rich tapestry of theological, ethical, and Scriptural principles. Drawing upon Scriptural passages, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and key papal documents, this article explores diverse Catholic views on the role and nature of human government.

1. Natural Law and Government

The Catholic Church places a strong emphasis on natural law as the foundation for understanding human government. According to the Catechism, "The natural law expresses the original moral sense which enables one to discern by reason the good and the evil" (CCC 1954). This underscores the importance of governments upholding moral principles, human dignity, and justice in their legislation and policies.

2. The Divine Right of Kings

Historically, the divine right of kings was a prevailing concept in Catholic monarchies. Pope Innocent XI's papal bull, "Ad Sacram Petri Sedem" (1682), expressed the idea that "Kings reign by Christ alone, and not by the grace of the people." This perspective held that monarchs ruled by divine appointment and, therefore, their authority was not to be questioned.

3. Integralism and Catholicism

Integralism is a perspective that seeks to integrate Catholic faith and morality into the state. Pope Pius XI, in "Quas Primas" (1925), declared, "The empire of our Redeemer embraces all men." This view envisions a society where Catholic principles and teachings are not only respected but actively promoted by the government. It posits that the state's role is to uphold Catholic values and ethics, fostering a society where Catholicism plays a central role in shaping public life.

4. Subsidiarity and Government

The principle of subsidiarity, affirmed by Pope Pius XI in "Quadragesimo Anno" (1931), emphasizes that matters should be handled at the most local level possible. This view encourages the decentralization of power, allowing individuals and smaller communities to make decisions that affect their lives. In the context of government, subsidiarity implies that local governments and communities should have more autonomy in decision-making, with higher authorities intervening only when necessary.

5. Romans 13: Scriptural Guidance

The book of Romans, particularly Romans 13, has played a significant role in shaping Catholic views on human government. This passage emphasizes the importance of obeying civil authorities, as these authorities are ultimately established by God. It advocates for the idea that government, when aligned with natural law and justice, serves a crucial role in maintaining order and peace in society. As it is written, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God" (Romans 13:1).

Conclusion

Catholic views on human government are diverse, reflecting a rich tapestry of theological and ethical perspectives. While the divine right of kings has waned in significance, the principles of natural law, integralism, subsidiarity, and Scriptural guidance continue to shape the Church's stance on governance.

In modern times, the emphasis is often on governments upholding natural law and protecting human dignity, rather than being tied to any specific form of government. The Church's commitment to justice, subsidiarity, and the common good underscores the importance of government as a means to foster a just and moral society, where the rights and dignity of all individuals are respected. The dialogue between these various perspectives remains a vital part of the ongoing discussion within the Catholic tradition on the role of government in serving the common good.