Pope Pius XII

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    Distributism Versus Capitalism

    Avatar photoByDorothy Day

    Summary: Contrasts the support of certain Catholics for the Industrial Council Plan, which called for co-management, with Distributism’s advocacy for co-ownership as the only means to alleviate the injustices caused by industry. Quotes “Osservatore Romano” on its condemnation of capitalism. Repudiates the characterization of the Industrial Council Plan as ‘the Pope’s plan,’ by quoting Pius XII’s 1952 Christmas message opposing efforts to conform society to modern industry and praising economies emphasizing agriculture and the crafts. Laments the use of text books upholding industrial capitalism in Catholic schools and seminaries, and offers examples of the body of American Catholic thought “which sets its face against this godless system.”
    (DDLW #175) The Catholic Worker, Oct 1954, 1, 6.

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    On Pilgrimage (July-August 1949)

    Avatar photoByDorothy Day

    Summary: Affirms the movement’s clear opposition to communism and refutes attempts by both communists and anti-communists to conflate CW and communism. Recounts statement of Pope Pius XII that the greatest danger to the Church is not communism, but ignorance of the Church’s social doctrine, of which communism is a consequence. Highlights statement of the Bishops of the Philippines that effective defense against communism requires addressing the injustices on which it feeds. Addresses challenges faced by families. (DDLW #164) The Catholic Worker, Jul-Aug 1949, pp. 1-2

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    On Distributism: Answer to John Cort 

    Avatar photoByDorothy Day

    Summary: Repudiates John Cort and other Catholics who see distributism as an agrarian visionary dream. Quotes from Pius XI, Pius XII, and Leo XIII in support of small and medium-sized businesses, employee ownership, and a back to the land movement. Discusses the evils of capitalistic industrialism and urges the long-range plan of distributism. (See DOC #159 and DOC #160) (DDLW #161) The Catholic Worker, Dec 1948, pp. 1, 3