Capitalism

Presbyterian Outlook: Capitalism

Back when I was a social work major at SIU-Carbondale, I believed that government spending, a higher minimum wage, and higher taxes on the rich were the answer to everything. Even in my years at Gordon-Conwell, I believed that capitalism was basically evil, thanks to Steve Mott, my professor of social ethics. I was never a socialist, but I have never been enamored with the capitalist system, either. I have never believed that the invisible hand of the free market could be trusted to restrain the injustice caused by human greed.

God has not endorsed any economic system. While the Biblical portrait of the early Jerusalem church (why is this story never alleged to have been a myth?) may appear to be an endorsement of a collectivist economic system, it can better be explained as a provisional exhibit of the reign of God. It required an ironclad commitment to the community on a level with the kind practiced at Qumran, where property of incoming initiates was itemized, communal ownership was practiced, and demanding oaths were taken to keep members from walking away. And the Jerusalem commune only functioned successfully for a short time (it had to be rescued by aid from Gentiles outside of Judea). …

I can't say I agree with everything Hobson has to say here but a BIG-time bravo to him as a pastor for raising the discussion of capitalism and economics in a positive light in a major Mainline publication. I may have to consider submitting a piece or two for the Outlook.