Theological Ethics in a Neoliberal Age: Confronting the Christian Problem with Wealth

by Kevin Hargaden, William T. Cavanaugh (Foreword)

Throughout his ministry, Jesus spoke frequently and unabashedly on the now-taboo subject of money. With nothing good to say to the rich, the New Testament—indeed the entire Bible—is far from positive towards the topic of personal wealth. And yet, we all seek material prosperity and comfort. How are Christians to square the words of their savior with the balances of their bank accounts, or more accurately, with their unquenchable desire for financial security? While the church has developed diverse responses to the problems of poverty, it is often silent on what seems almost as straightforward a biblical that wealth, too, is a problem. By considering the particular context of the recent economic history of Ireland, this book explores how the parables of Jesus can be the key to unlocking what it might mean to follow Christ as wealthy people without diluting our dilemma or denying the tension. Through an engagement with contemporary economic and political thought, aided by the work of Karl Barth and William T. Cavanaugh, this book represents a unique and innovative intervention to a discussion that applies to every Christian in the Western world.

Genres: Theology, Economics

234 pages, Paperback

Published October 31, 2018

Reviews

[Ben S · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for an independent study in Christianity and neoliberalism. Thanks perhaps to the title it showed up in every search—and I decided I’d give it a try.

Overall—it’s a strong entry on this topic, and one I was right to choose for my study. Hargaden’s first chapter problematizes neoliberalism from a Christian perspective; his fourth explores Christian responses. These sections were excellent. Also very good—Hargaden’s second chapter, which examines the parables with Karl Barth and an eye for the economics of the Kingdom. I skimmed the third chapter on Ireland’s experience of neoliberalism because it wasn’t as applicable to me—but seemed good as well.

Overall—a solid and interesting work in this niche area of theological thinking.

[Cade Adkison · Rating 2 out of 5]

Abandoned due to complete lack of interest

[Isaiah Padgett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading this book a few years ago, but was unfortunately too busy to finish it. Finally found time to revisit this from the beginning and I must say, this is probably the best theological treatment of neoliberalism that I've read. This is a stellar work that should really be required reading for anyone exploring this topic, and especially students studying theological ethics!