Laborem Exercens

On Human Work

St. John Paul II1981-09-14Current

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Overview

Studies work as a human vocation and insists on the priority of labor over capital, workers’ rights, and solidarity.

Why This Document Matters

It is a foundational Catholic source for the dignity of work and the moral evaluation of economic systems.

Historical Context

Issued by St. John Paul II in 1981, this papal encyclical addresses the pastoral, doctrinal, or governing needs of its period while remaining part of the Church's continuing documentary tradition.

Authority and Status

Genre: Papal Encyclical
Authority class: Papal encyclical
Juridical force: Doctrinal and pastoral
Current status: Current
Promulgated: 1981-09-14

Authoritative papal teaching; the weight of individual statements depends on their wording, subject, continuity, and intent.

Key Points

Social TeachingHuman Dignity & LifeMoral Theology

Major Themes

Social TeachingHuman Dignity & LifeMoral Theology

Related CatholicG33k Resources

Official Text

Laborem Exercens

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