The magnitude of economics (mixed with other concerns like political power) rouses the simultaneous hate and intrigue of economic influence over human civilization. Economics and politics have engaged constructed tools like class system based on ethnicity to limit competition and ensure the cheapest labor (boosting profit margins). Racism—as one example of oppression—is necessary to keep a ‘class’ or grouping of humanity subjugated for economic gain and to keep the system running smoothly. Identity based in economic classification has infiltrated every human institution so it seems impossible to define myself—even in purely religious or theological terms—without using economic valuation terms. Participation in the system is not voluntary, despite what political or theological voices may suggest. Capitalism has been so unequivocally efficient it has a global power that will take many generations to undue, if another system can overtake it. And perhaps this perspective is too isolated, too simplistic. A human identity has many layers and is complicated. However, economics appeals to one of the most basic instincts of human existence: survival. In our wealth, United States citizens may not feel the attraction of economics to their survival, but to their “success” or better said “excess.” In our excess, we feel entitled to act as the hand of God in global politics which will surely cause violent-laden tension as the USA is no longer the sovereign nation of the world.
Call this pessimism or cynicism, if you will, but it seems there is an allergy in Americanisms to consider critical reflection and action beyond self-interest that will bring more financial and political crises for my generation and those who follow. The bubble burst of economic markets and speculation is one indication of a dangerous game of power we have engaged. I am sorry to think most American Christians will never feel or think their economic position or larger system is repulsive any more than adultery or lying. Paul’s self-loathing statement, “I do not the good I ought and instead do what I hate,” strikes deeply in the Christian identity concerning Capitalism. Careful reading of history shows Capitalism becomes what we, like Paul, should hate yet it is difficult if impossible to extricate ourselves.
Here is an opportune and traditional point to call upon grace and the Ecclesia community. To live an alternative economy in the face of oppressive, self-interested norms is the challenge American Christian communities must call upon themselves. However, this seems too divided, too neat for contemporary minds and ethics. Privatization of religion has created neat compartmentalization of minds and hearts that allows one hand can be feeding the homeless on designated service days but forwarding oppressive financial policies with the other. Thus one hand is ensures a homeless person is dependent on the “good works” of the other hand. Injustice continues and those created in the image of God are trampled by the overwhelming power of Capitalism. It becomes even more poignant considering this is the witness of Christ in our communities. Shall we perpetually murder Christ and mourn the injustice of Christ’s death? Selfish greed is what happens when we buy into consumerist marketing and participate blindly in Capitalist paradigms. The phrase “blissful in ignorance” might be preferred, but it seems only a firm dose of acknowledging human sin will move individuals and the collective Ecclesia community toward the anticipated kindom Christ proclaimed.
Awareness is simply the first step. A deep satisfaction and repulsion of “worldly” social and economic systems must spur action. Otherwise, what will change? If it isn’t an oxymoron to consider, is it possible for an economic mind to consider outcomes and bottom lines beyond self-preservation and self-interest? If so, it would be appropriate to call this “neighborly capitalism.” Capitalism concerned with profit of the other is moving toward a political and economic kindom of God—embodying the command to love God in justice and our neighbor with peace.
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