Rerum Novarum by Pope Leo XIII

On the Condition of Labor

This seminal encyclical addresses the complex issues of labor and capital in the context of the late 19th century, advocating for the rights and dignity of workers while emphasizing the importance of maintaining social harmony. It calls for a balanced approach that respects both private property and the need for social justice, urging the state to play a role in protecting the vulnerable and ensuring fair wages. The document underscores the moral responsibilities of employers and employees, promoting the formation of workers' associations and the Church's role in guiding ethical economic practices.

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