Including contributions from twentytwo leading moral theologians this volume is the most thorough assessment of modern Roman Catholic social teaching available. In addition to interrogations of the major documents it provides insight into the biblical and philosophical foundations of Catholic social teaching addresses the doctrinal issues that arise in such a context and explores the social thought leading up to the modern era which is generally accepted as beginning in 1891 with the publication of Pope Leo XIIIs Rerum Novarum. The book also includes a review of how Catholic social teaching has been received in the United States and offers an informed look at the shortcomings and questions that future generations must address.