Can a Catholic Be a Socialist? [The Answer Is No - Here's Why]
by Trent Horn & Catherine R. Pakaluk
210 pages
NonFiction
by Trent Horn & Catherine R. Pakaluk
210 pages
NonFiction
This book is highly relevant to the culture today! I know many left-leaning catholic friends who have all but embraced socialism as a "catholic" concept. This book explores the history of socialism, shares Catholic teaching regarding socialism and uncovers the lie in modern "catholic" arguments for socialism including:
- Since the early Christians kept their property in common, so should we.
- Jesus would be in favor of an economic system that guarantees everyone food, health care and education.
- The Church, especially Pope Francis, teaches that Catholics must find a "third way" between the extremes of Communism and capitalism.
- Socialism would work if it were done right, like in Sweden.
The book then goes on to explore capitalism; how it is a tool that can be used in communion with catholic teaching (unlike socialism) but how it can also be misused. Strong warnings about given about pitfalls and sins that can occur within capitalism. A heavy dose of Catholic social teaching is included, which personally challenged me and gave me a lot to think about.
Most Catholics know vaguely that the Church opposes socialism, but this books offers a much deeper understanding of what socialism is (and isn't) and why the Catholic Church opposes it. You might be surprised. I certainly was. It is an adjustment to look at things through the lens of Catholic teaching and wisdom, versus the polarizing and shifting political language of the modern day. Beauty and genius have been developing in the Catholic Church under the guide of the Holy Spirit for two millennium. And there is nothing new under the sun.
I find it fascinating to think about the spiritual consequences of different political models. All systems are not equal. Some are inherently incompatible with the Catholic faith. But even those compatible with faith can be misused. Catholics must always be on guard against vice and sin, if they want to grow into a deeper relationship with God.
There is so much negativity about America right now. This book compelled me to be grateful for America and our system of government.
It was a fast and easy read. The book has short chapters and nice formatting. It is very accessible. I read it easily over a few days.
RECOMMENDED FOR: Catholics leaning toward socialistic ideas as well as Catholics who are die-hard capitalist. We can all grow in our understanding of the faith! Readers interested in the spiritual effects of various forms of government.
Most Catholics know vaguely that the Church opposes socialism, but this books offers a much deeper understanding of what socialism is (and isn't) and why the Catholic Church opposes it. You might be surprised. I certainly was. It is an adjustment to look at things through the lens of Catholic teaching and wisdom, versus the polarizing and shifting political language of the modern day. Beauty and genius have been developing in the Catholic Church under the guide of the Holy Spirit for two millennium. And there is nothing new under the sun.
I find it fascinating to think about the spiritual consequences of different political models. All systems are not equal. Some are inherently incompatible with the Catholic faith. But even those compatible with faith can be misused. Catholics must always be on guard against vice and sin, if they want to grow into a deeper relationship with God.
There is so much negativity about America right now. This book compelled me to be grateful for America and our system of government.
It was a fast and easy read. The book has short chapters and nice formatting. It is very accessible. I read it easily over a few days.
RECOMMENDED FOR: Catholics leaning toward socialistic ideas as well as Catholics who are die-hard capitalist. We can all grow in our understanding of the faith! Readers interested in the spiritual effects of various forms of government.
No comments:
Post a Comment