Fraternity, familial relationships, and politics in the light of the encyclical Fratelli tutti

Abstract

Based on the dignity and intrinsic sociability of the human person, this article asserts the importance of fraternity and family relationships in social life and in politics. Too many dreams about political integration have been shattered lately, while new walls of aggressive nationalism and isolationism are being built. In this situation, people everywhere feel the need for good politics and for “a healthy injection of family spirit.” (AL 183) In fact, there can be no universal fraternity without good politics, “built upon respect for law and frank dialogue between individuals.” (FT 196)