Seven Themes of Catholic Social Teaching & Biblical Justice

These vocabulary flashcards cover the key terms, principles, and biblical foundations presented in the lecture on Catholic Social Teaching and Social Justice.

Catholic Social Teachings (CST)

The Church’s moral tradition, rooted in Scripture, Tradition, and papal encyclicals, applying faith to social issues such as poverty, inequality, and the environment.

Seven Principles of CST

A framework of seven core themes: dignity of the human person; call to family, community, and participation; rights and responsibilities; option for the poor and vulnerable; dignity of work and rights of workers; solidarity; and care for God’s creation.

Dignity of the Human Person

The belief that every person possesses intrinsic worth because they are created in the image and likeness of God (Imago Dei); foundation for all human rights and CST.

Imago Dei

Latin for “image of God”; teaches that humans reflect God’s glory, making their dignity innate and beyond measure.

Call to Family, Community, and Participation

Principle that the family is society’s central unit and every person has the right and duty to engage in societal life for the common good.

Common Good

The total social conditions allowing individuals and groups to reach their fulfillment more easily and completely; a key goal of CST.

Rights and Responsibilities

CST theme affirming that human rights (e.g., life, education) are paired with duties to protect others’ rights and promote societal welfare.

Basic Human Rights

Fundamental entitlements—such as life, food, shelter, education—stemming from human dignity and to be safeguarded by society.

Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

A preferential focus on meeting the needs of the poor, marginalized, and powerless, reflecting God’s special love for them.

Preferential Love for the Poor

The moral obligation to prioritize the welfare of orphans, refugees, homeless, elderly, sick, and all who suffer exclusion or injustice.

Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers

The teaching that work participates in God’s creation; workers deserve fair wages, safe conditions, rest, and respect.

Fair Wages

Just compensation enabling workers to support themselves and their families, recognized by CST as a basic labor right.

Solidarity

A firm commitment to the human family, promoting unity, peace, and justice across all social, economic, and cultural divisions.

Care for God’s Creation

The responsibility to protect Earth’s environment, natural resources, and future generations; emphasized by Pope Francis.

Social Justice

The pursuit of equal opportunity, protection of rights, fair treatment, and special concern for the poor within societal structures.

Prophet Amos

8th-century BCE shepherd called to denounce injustice and corruption in Israel, advocating social change for the oppressed.

Equality of Opportunity

A social justice principle ensuring all people have fair access to resources and chances to succeed.

Intrinsic Dignity

Inherent worth belonging to every human by virtue of being God’s creation, not earned by status or achievements.

Preferential Option

CST concept directing particular concern and advocacy toward those who are poor or vulnerable.

Image and Likeness of God

Biblical phrase (Gen 1:26-27) expressing humanity’s special reflection of God, grounding human value and dignity.