Notable quotations from Catholic social teaching on the theme of Efficiency
On another side, we are witnessing a renewal of the liberal ideology. This current asserts itself both in the name of economic efficiency, and for the defense of the individual against the increasingly overwhelming hold of organizations, and as a reaction against the totalitarian tendencies of political powers. Certainly, personal initiative must be maintained and developed. But do not Christians who take this path tend to idealize liberalism in their turn, making it a proclamation in favor of freedom? They would like a new model, more adapted to present-day conditions, while easily forgetting that at the very root of philosophical liberalism is an erroneous affirmation of the autonomy of the individual in his activity, his motivation and the exercise of his liberty. Hence, the liberal ideology likewise calls for careful discernment on their part.
A Call to Action, #35
The eclipse of the sense of God and ourselves leads to materialism, which breeds individualism, utilitarianism, and hedonism. There is a switch from "being" to "having." The only goal is the pursuit of one's own material wellbeing. Socalled quality of life is primarily seen as economic efficiency, inordinate consumerism, physical beauty, and pleasure, to the neglect of the more profound interpersonal, spiritual, and religious dimensions of existence.
The Gospel of Life (Donders), #23
The quality and truth of human relations, the degree of participation and responsibility, are no less significant and important for the future of society than the quantity and variety of goods produced and consumed. Overcoming the temptation to wish to measure everything in terms of efficiency and of trade, and in terms of the interplay of forces and interests, man today wishes to replace these quantitative criteria with the intensity of communications, the spread of knowledge and culture, mutual service and a combining of efforts for a common task.
A Call to Action, #41
This moral uncertainty can in some way be explained by the gravity of today's social problems, sometimes mitigating the responsibility of individuals, but it is no less true that we are confronted by a true structure of sin, which takes the form of a "culture of death." This culture denies solidarity and is fostered by currents that encourage a society that is excessively concerned with efficiency.
The Gospel of Life (Donders), #12
Certainly one of the principal characteristics which seem to be typical of our age is an increase in social relationships, in those mutual ties, that is, which grow daily more numerous and which have led to the introduction of many and varied forms of associations in the lives and activities of citizens, and to their acceptance within our legal framework. Scientific and technical progress, greater productive efficiency and a higher standard of living are among the many present-day factors which would seem to have contributed to this trend.
Mother and Teacher, #59
Economic and social policies as well as organization of the work world should be continually evaluated in light of their impact on the strength and stability of family life. The long-range future of this nation is intimately linked with the well-being of families, for the family is the most basic form of human community. Efficiency and competition in the marketplace must be moderated by greater concern for the way work schedules and compensation support or threaten the bonds between spouses and between parents and children.
Economic Justice for All, #93
