Rerum Novarum is the encyclical Pope Leo XIII wrote on the proper relationship of employers and employees. It is still considered a very important encyclical, and those who work for social justice are guided by it even today. Pope John Paul II even wrote a follow-up encyclical Centisimus Annus to commemorate its 100th anniversary. I encourage you to take this opportunity to read the encyclical. I'm hoping my wife will be knowlegeable about these matters, although if you've reached this stage a few gaps in your background are understandable.