La fraternidad y la doctrina social de la iglesia: persona, caridad y justicia social

Abstract

I understand fraternity as an array of ties among human beings based on respect and the acknowledgement of the persons' dignity, equal rights and solidarity. This paper discusses the historical relationship between politics and fraternal feelings, values or affections, whereby the former becomes a category of political commitment. Furthermore, I examine several models of political community taking the mutual obligations and responsibilities generated by fraternity as starting point. Then, I discuss Christian fraternity from the point of view of the Social Doctrine of the Church and its compromise with Christ's charity for the integral development of the human beings and social justice. Finally, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity, I stand for collaboration between the State and civil society, including the Church, to achieve a fairer society that strives for the common good.