Religion and politics

How Much State Does a Just Society Need?

The title question I was asked, “How much state does a just society need?” assumes that a just society requires a superior power—the state. The question is about “how much

Market Capitalism and Christian Social Ethics: A Contradiction?

Capitalism and free markets are widely considered to be incompatible with Christian social ethics. At a closer look, however, market capitalism turns out to be the economic order most consistent with the basic principles of Christian ethics.

The Labor of Capital: How Wealth is Created

The Catholic Church’s mistrust of free entrepreneurship is an old phenomenon. At its origin is the idea of antagonism between “Labor and Capital”, rooted in the influence of Marxist doctrine. It is time to leave this misleading dichotomy behind.

Catholic Social Teaching: Out of Touch with Economic Thought

Human history is deeply marked by mass poverty. This was only overcome by the capitalistic industrial revolution. Catholic ethicists and theologians would be wise to learn about the economic factors that have lifted people out of poverty and continue to increase the general standard of living.

Freedom of Expression and Democracy: Opening Lecture at the Students for Liberty Regional Conference

Freedom of expression is a fundamental right without which a free and democratic society cannot exist. We all grew up in this culture of freedom. But Political Correctness and conformism endanger it.

The Ethics of the Market Economy: A Critical Appraisal of Ludwig von Mises’ Utilitarian Interpretation (Academic paper)

Mises’ interpretation of market capitalism is flawed. In truth, Mises is best interpreted in a non-utilitarian way.

The True Meaning of ‘Social Justice’: A Catholic View of Hayek (Academic paper)

Hayek’s dismissal of the concept of “social justice” is well-known. While we can basically agree with Hayek’s critique, we should not entirely reject this concept. There exists a true meaning of social justice.