PRINCIPLE OF SUBSIDIARITY IN THE SOCIAL DOCTRINE OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

Abstract

The article considers the origin of the idea of subsidiarity, which was originally formed in the XIX century within the Catholic Church. The process of its evolution, during which the principle of subsidiarity acquired a new content and during which it was implemented in the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church is traced. While at its origin the principle was considered to regulate the level of interaction of different hierarchical levels of authorities in relation to the institution of the family, then over time the borders were expanded to the sphere of social administration, which can be applied in different organizational models within geopolitical, international, national and administrative structures. The norms of canon law, which enshrined the principle of subsidiarity as an integral tool used in the division of powers in the administration of the Catholic Church, are analyzed.