Introduction

The purpose of this weblog is to share the richness of Catholic Social Teaching as it applies to ethics in business. Each entry will consist of a difficult ethical question and relevant quotations from the Magisterial documents of the Catholic Church. All are welcome to comment or suggest new questions or quotations.

Are we morally obliged to maximize profits

“The Church acknowledges the legitimate role of profit as an indication that a business is functioning well” Centesimus Annus, 35

“.. the purpose of a business firm is not simply to make a profit, but is to be found in its very existence as a community of persons who in various ways are endeavoring to satisfy their basic needs, and who form a particular group at the service of the whole of society.” Centesimus Annus, 35

“A theory that makes profit the exclusive norm and ultimate end of economic activity is morally unacceptable.” Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2424