Wealth, Poverty, and Human Destiny

The 20th century featured a bitter struggle between capitalism and socialism, and capitalism triumphed. But the economic superiority of markets has not quieted all critics: some, especially within the religious community, argue that capitalism is inherently immoral. And, indeed, the material bounty produced by markets does not satisfy the human spirit. Markets offer liberty but do not tell people how to use their freedom. Is capitalism neutral, an empty vessel for the morals its participants bring with them? Is it negative, posing a threat to family, community, and social justice? Or is it positive, encouraging such characteristics as honesty and thrift? In a new book from the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, coeditors and contributors examine the moral merits of the marketplace.