Bonum sane

In it Benedict takes notes of the economic hardship and moral laxity occasioned by the recent World War, and cautions about "the advent of a universal republic, which is based on the absolute equality of men and the communion of goods, and in which there is no longer any distinction of nationality, does not recognize the authority of the father upon the children, nor the public authorities and citizens, nor of God on the men in civilian consortium.

"[1] He proposed that instead of being drawn to socialism, "the sworn enemy of Christian principles", working men should follow Saint Joseph as their guide and special patron.

Benedict quoted his predecessor, Leo XIII: For Joseph, of royal blood, united by marriage to the greatest and holiest of women, reputed the father of the Son of God, passed his life in labour, and won by the toil of the artisan the needful support of his family.

If they win the right of emerging from poverty and obtaining a better rank by lawful means, reason and justice uphold them in changing the order established, in the first instance, for them by the Providence of God.

Benedict affirmed that strengthening the domestic society with purity, harmony and fidelity, would not only effect an improvement in private morals, but also in the life of the community.