There are many economic principles that are consistent with Christian tenets, but because our market driven economy (capitalism) is based upon a humanistic philosophy, there are a great many capitalistic principles that are not consistent with Christianity and faith principles.
P.T. Barnum contended there “is a sucker born every minute”, and Michael Douglas’ character in the movie Wall Street declared confidently that “greed is good!” Even Adam Smith, the father of capitalism, suggested that all economic parties would be better off if the “invisible hand” of self- interest was unleashed. All are attitudes from a humanistic worldview.
But, God is the true “father” of economics, regardless of the particular system a country decides to use, and the Bible has a great deal to say about the subject. (By the way, there are scriptures that can be used to support all 3 major economic systems discussed in the course.)
So, the research assignment is this:
In 500– 750 words, compare and contrast a key capitalistic principle (of your choice) with what the scriptures seem to say about the issue. (Do not compare capitalism, in general, with the Bible or theism. That’s too huge of a subject.)
See if you can select a topic where there is some agreement, yet some disagreement.
Here are two examples to help clarify. (Of course, you may not use these. Sorry. Select one of your own. These examples are cited merely to illustrate the nature of the assignment.)
Example 1: how is it determined in a capitalistic economic system what goods are produced? The answer is “consumer sovereignty”, i.e. if enough consumers want it (there is sufficient Demand), then suppliers tend to produce it. This is classical Supply and Demand theory in capitalism, and the theory has worked pretty well over the centuries. No standard of living is higher in the world – at least not yet.
Still, what do you think the Bible suggests about such supplying a product just because there is a sufficient demand for it? Might there be some disagreement as well as agreement on such a strategy between scriptural views and capitalistic views?
Example 2: what is the role of work in a capitalistic economy? What is the purpose of a job? How important is income in a market driven economy? More income means more choices, more comforts, and more experiences. So, get as much income as you can?
What does the Bible seem to say about work, the purpose of an employment opportunity, and the priority of income? See any comparisons? Any contrasts?
(Now, find your own subject to analyze; don’t use either one of these examples. They were cited to help you get a better understanding of the nature of the assignment.)
And, DO NOT try to compare capitalism and theism, or compare capitalism with Christianity. That’s too huge of a task; volumes have been written on that subject. Focus the comparison/contrast on a particular concept or principle of capitalism and Christianity.
Again, no plagiarism, limit properly quoted material to 10%, and use APA guidelines.