Publication Details

Abstract

This paper explores how a viable politics of the common good depends on the principle of subsidiarity. First, it offers a description and assessment of Alasdair MacIntyre's Catholic politics of the common good. On this background MacIntyre's position is seen as interesting yet problematic. Contrary to the principle of subsidiarity, MacIntyre takes an excessively critical, negative stance on state politics and on common goods achievable through the operation of state. Therefore, the paper argues for the inclusion of subsidiarity into his vision of politics, since any adequate politics of the common good requires its recognition and application.