"Capitalism v. Collectivism" in Two Quotes
At one end of the spectrum, we have the world’s leading apologist for irrational primitivism (and earthly suffering), Pope Benedict XVI —
Pope Benedict XVI says the global financial crisis show the futility of money and ambition.
Benedict says that “now with the collapse of big banks we see that money disappears, is nothing and all these things that appear real are in fact of secondary importance.” He urges those who build their lives “only on things that are visible, such as success, career, money” to keep that in mind.
At the other end of the spectrum, we have a reality-based academic capitalist, Tyler Cowen —
In matters of morality, the free market functions like an amplifier. By placing more wealth and resources at our disposal, it tends to boost and accentuate whatever character tendencies we already possess. The net result is usually favorable. Most people want a good life for themselves and for their families and friends, and such desires form a part of positive moral character.
It never ceases to amaze me how reluctant dogmatic Christian sects are to admit that capitalism (by which I mean an economic system based to the greatest extent possible on voluntary exchange) is the only economic system compatible with the Ten Commandments and with the teachings of Jesus.
Do not steal. Do not defraud. Do not coerce. Tend to your own affairs before you pass judgment on others (“cast stones”). Be charitable — but with your own wealth (“camel-eye-needle”). Treat your counterparty as though he were your partner. And never conflate politics (“render unto Caesar”) with religion (“render unto God”).
All compatible with capitalism — and only with capitalism.
If that isn’t spiritually uplifting, then what is?
Filed under: Capitalism, Society, Religion, Culture Wars
Surely the Pope will be disposing of the Vatican's assets, including its capital. No more fancy clothes, no more excess real estate. Nope, a vow of poverty it is because he has spiritual riches.
I'd settle for a vow of silence.
There was a time when just being a communist was grounds for excommunication from the Church, but unfortunately many have become enamoured with socialism. They decry the gluttony and avarice that tends to accompany (or fuel) capitalism, and view socialistic means as a way of "helping everyone."
The Preferential Option for the Poor is a quasi-doctrine that has sprung up in the past few decades that tends to demonize self interest. It is, in my view, the result of people who need to get out and live in the real world some more.
Here' something more ironic: The more liberal wing of the Church which casts stones at capitalism is far more vocal that the Church should change it's teachings on birth control, women's rights, and yes, homosexuality.
[Kip replies: Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm under the impression that atheism is still grounds for excommunication. That explains why Soviet Communists and their sympathizers were summarily excommunicated, not because of their opposition to capitalism. And let's not forget liberation theology.]