Freedom and responsibility
Freedom is the capacity to act responsibly and grow toward truth and goodness, not merely the absence of restraint. Habits, fear, ignorance, coercion, and other circumstances can affect responsibility. Catholic moral judgment distinguishes the character of an act from what can be known about an individual’s culpability. Respect for freedom includes supporting people in becoming able to choose well.
Follow the sources
An original library introduction, with sources for further study. This is a starting point rather than a complete treatment or a finished formation lesson.