Catholic Exploitation of Labor?

The Roman Catholic Church has long advocated that workers be treated better than they usually are - not quite to the point of advocating socialism or communism, but far enough that laissez-faire capitalists are made nervous. This position is quite consistent with many of the traditions contained in the Bible, so it's not surprising. What's curious, however, is that when it comes to putting this principle to practice, Catholic institutions fall short.

Specifically, Catholic colleges. Academy Girl writes about the situation facing "contingent faculty" at Catholic colleges:

One would think that its interest in social justice and a living wage would compel Catholic institutions to take special care in the hiring and remuneration of its faculty members. Above all, Catholic colleges should be leaders in establishing exemplary hiring practices that support workers and their families in keeping with concern for social justice. ... Despite the Church's insistence that workers' rights be taken seriously, Catholic colleges have, in my opinion, been run with bottom-dollar, corporate CEO strategies like any other college campus in North America. ... After studying the CAUT chart, it appears to be the secular institutions and organizations in Canada who are taking leadership roles in creating meaningful change for contingent faculty. What is the point of calling yourselves Catholic institutions if you don't uphold the most basic aspects of your faith and moral tradition?

There's a lot more detail to be had via the above link - perhaps more detail than most people are even interested in. Nevertheless, it is an interesting issue. Why aren't Catholic institutions doing more to put their social principles to the test. Why don't they lead by example? Surely they aren't saying that, in effect, such principles don't actually work after all?

Read More:

• Roman Catholicism
• Popes
• Vatican Council II