Christian Theology and Market Economics

by Ian R. Harper (Editor)

There was a time when theologians and economists knew much more about each other's work than they do today. This book is dedicated to reconnecting two disciplines that study different dimensions of the human condition. The well respected contributors - economists, theologians, some both - explore the interaction of Christian theology and market economics, from the earliest times to the modern day. There is much to surprise, puzzle and edify serious students of theology and economics as well as the merely curious. This unique work has a historical time-span reaching from Aristotle to the modern day, thus appealing to those interested in the history of ideas and economic thought as well as the links between theological and economic thought. Economists studying the intellectual roots of their discipline, as well as Christians researching the links between Christian beliefs and the worldly philosophy governing everyday commercial lives will also welcome it.

Genres: Economics

240 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Victor Claar · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are not many books that successfully make an ethical, faith-based case for the good that business can do. This book succeeds where others do not.

The approach of the book is humble, thoughtful, careful, and humane. Far from being an apology for the money-making activities of businesses and business people, the book genuinely seeks out and shares the ways in which business enterprise can enrich the lives of individuals--whether explicitly connected to business or not--as well as the societies in which we live.

The only shortcoming of this book follows from its edited-volume style. A thoroughly integrated, faith-based argument for the good that business can accomplish requires a single narrative, I think. Nevertheless, readers will gain much from these engaging essays.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this assessment of free market economics and it's relationship to theology. Cons: It's a bit sterile and academic, the first few chapters were less interesting to me. Pros: The last few chapters were fantastic. It provides good critiques of both socialist and libertarian economic models.