Globalization And Catholic Social Thought

Contributors to this volume assess the meaning of globalization and the capacity of Catholic social thought to understand, reform, and guide it.

Current forms of economic globalization are leading to increased hunger, greater inequality, the undermining of local cultures, and severe ecological crises. In this interdisciplinary study, which draws upon fields ranging from political economy to ecology to theological ethics, John Sniegocki explores these negative realities and their causes. He also explores possible alternatives, highlighting the activities of inspiring grassroots movements throughout the world that are working for change and suggesting ways that each of us can support these efforts. Sniegocki devotes attention to numerous important contributions that can be made by Catholic Social Teaching to the quest for positive alternatives. Among these contributions are its vision of integral development, its understanding of structural injustice, its holistic conception of human rights, its deep concern for ecology, and its emphasis on solidarity with the poor. The author also suggests several ways that Catholic Social Teaching could be yet further enhanced, particularly through dialogue with grassroots activists and scholars such as Vandana Shiva of India, with persons in the field of radical political economy, and with the insights of theologians such as John Howard Yoder.

How can the turbulent world of international relations be understood and addressed from a Christian faith perspective? In this book fundamental theological and philosophical perspectives are presented from various Christian traditions: Neo-calvinism, Catholic social teaching, critical theory and Christian realism.

Catholic Social Thought presents detailed commentary and response to the Vatican's 2005 Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, with contributions from outstanding American scholars. Addressing theology, social theory, the family, economy, government, labor, global society, gender, peace, and the environment, the various authors explore the core theology, explain the Compendium's themes and arguments, and apply their own intellectual powers to applications of its teachings. Some of the essays are largely expository, some more critical (in both positive and negative senses). Some operate from a standard of magisterial assent in conformity with Ad Tuendam Fidam, others do not. Together, the essays represent the range of Catholic thinking on social issues in the American Church today.

This new series of original essays by some of the world's leading Catholic thinkers explores the enduring challenge and relevance of Catholic Social Teaching. First in the new series to be published in English, this volume examines the application of Catholic Social Teaching in diverse geographical and cultural contexts. With reflections on the reception of Catholic Social Teaching in North America, Western and Eastern Europe, Africa, India, and the Philippines, the authors focus on local sensitivities and challenges within the context of a global church, while at the same time opening up larger issues of justice and the common good. Ideal for libraries, students, and scholars of Catholic social thought, ethics, and how these tenets apply to the world today. Book jacket.