Encyclicals Question

[MiserereMei25]

If Encyclicals do not contain binding doctrine, why are they written?

 

[Augustinian]

If Encyclicals do not contain binding doctrine, why are they written?

To address problems that individual popes wanted or needed to address, to advance peace and order like Alexander VI was trying to do with Inter Caetera which partitioned newly discovered lands in the New World between Spain and Portugal. Nothing doctrinal, but still it helped to keep peace

 

[ahs]

They are also written to explain how to properly understand doctrine, how the Church applies theology or philosophy to certain subjects, expound on the importance of certain doctrines, etc. While they are not binding doctrines in and of themselves, they are authoritative in nature. You might find this helpful:

What is the difference between an encyclical, an apostolic constitution, a papal bull, and a pastoral letter? - Catholic Straight Answers

Each of these titles has a certain nuance which distinguishes them from each other. An apostolic constitution represents a very solemn pronouncement issued by the Pope on a doctrinal or disciplinary question. For example, Pope Paul VI’s apostolic constitution Missale … Continued

catholicstraightanswers.com

 

[guanophore]

If Encyclicals do not contain binding doctrine, why are they written?

Encyclicals contain a great deal of binding doctrine. They are heavily referenced this way. The are part of the ordinary Magesterial teaching of the Church, which is binding upon Catholics.

 

[BoomerangToo]

Encyclicals help to form a person’s conscience regarding everyday life.

 

[thistle]

Encyclicals contain a great deal of binding doctrine. They are heavily referenced this way. The are part of the ordinary Magesterial teaching of the Church, which is binding upon Catholics

Yes but Papal Encyclicals per se are not binding. They may reference binding doctrine or might just be general letters or circulars.