Quote by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger
Standards of conduct appropriate to civil society or the workings of a democracy cannot be purely and simply applied to the Church.
Summary
This quote suggests that the standards of behavior and conduct that are deemed acceptable and functional in civil society or a democracy cannot be directly and universally applied to the context of the Church. It implies that the Church, as an entity with its own distinct set of beliefs, values, and structures, may require a different approach when determining appropriate conduct and moral principles. This highlights the need to consider the unique dynamics and principles within religious institutions when formulating ethical expectations.