Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 323 – Part I.

YOUCAT Question n. 323 – Part I. How can the individual be integrated into society in such a way that he nevertheless can develop freely?

(Youcat answer) The individual can develop freely in society if the “principle of subsidiarity” is observed.        

A deepening through CCC

V(CCC 1883) Socialization also presents dangers. Excessive intervention by the state can threaten personal freedom and initiative. The teaching of the Church has elaborated the principle of subsidiarity, according to which "a community of a higher order should not interfere in the internal life of a community of a lower order, depriving the latter of its functions, but rather should support it in case of need and help to co-ordinate its activity with the activities of the rest of society, always with a view to the common good" (CA 48 § 4; cf. Pius XI, Quadragesimo anno I, 184-186).  

Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) The principle of subsidiarity, which was developed as part of Catholic Social Teaching, states: What individuals can accomplish by their own initiative and efforts should not be taken from them by a higher authority. A greater and higher social institution must not take over the duties of a subordinate organization and deprive it of its competence. Its purpose, rather, is to intervene in a subsidiary fashion (thus offering help) when individuals or smaller institutions find that a task is beyond them.

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 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.   

(This question: How can the individual be integrated into society in such a way that he nevertheless can develop freely? is continued)