the collective fulfillment of a purpose (as opposed to the greatest good for the greatest number based on popular sentiment)
When we deny intention and purpose and thus the functional concept of the good, the common good quickly devolves into the greatest good for the greatest number. So when people speak of the common good today they are frequently just talking about popular sentiment. This is what defines modern perceptions regarding civil society, marriage and sexuality. It can easily become tyranny by majority.
See also: “the Good“
« Back to Glossary Index