The Morality of Capitalism

Recent economical issues in the United States have brought about various conversations regarding economics, social order, responsibility, and strategic next steps. Although each of these are extremely important, I wish to take a moment to deviate from the hype of discussion and even from the normal strategy blog entries to focus on one point of economics that isn't being discussed... the morality of capitalism.

Yes, I am a bleeding capitalist and believe that the capitalistic model for economics is the most beneficial system for the greatest amount of people, most honoring to the endeavors of man's creativity, and most of all, the most biblically based economic system explored.

But here is what's most important for us to understand in the history of economic thought and evolution of economic models... capitalism is chiefly rooted in a biblical foundation of truth, justice, and most of all, morality. Even though Adam Smith is credited as the "father of capitalism", much original thought in capitalistic theory was proposed by theologian John Calvin.

I'm not here to divulge a history lesson; simply to state a fact. The capitalistic method is meant for a moral people, it only works with a moral people, it was only intended for a moral people. Now we wonder why things are falling apart economically all around us but we don't stop to consider the foundational root of the issue. Yes, there are multiple market factors impacting our world but none of us can deny the lack of credibility, integrity, and morality in our business leaders today.

My challenge for us is to consider what impact morality and immorality have on all of life... not just the "church world" of the religious right. We have trampled something far more sacred than simple economics, we have destroyed the values of morality and therefore set the tone for all types of economic issues.

There is hope, but our hope is never founded in economics, nations, or government. Our hope should always be in our principles, the right principles, that will drive us to leadership of integrity, credibility, and morality. Yes, capitalism was intended for a moral people.

Is it any wonder that capitalism is failing in this great nation now?