While it is an inflammatory title, it is nonetheless a true statement from a Christian (and many other religions) worldview. Capitalism, according to Wikipedia, "is an economic system based on the private ownership of the means of production, with the goal of making a profit. Central elements of capitalism include capital accumulation, competitive markets, and a price system." By it's very nature it is a beast bent on consuming resources including land, product and labor to line the pockets of a few. Need further proof? According to the Global Wealth Report, the wealthiest 1% now own 39% of the world wealth. 39%!!! An outrage when 25,000 people, mostly children, die everyday due to starvation.
Capitalism is Evil and Greed is Her Bitch.
Capitalism requires growth to survive and so by its very nature, just like a cancer spreading through a healthy body, murders the host. The Earth provides finite resources and space. The few rise on the backs of the many.
The Old Testament has many choice things to say about systems relegating people to poverty:
"This is what the LORD says: For three sins of Israel, even for four, I will not turn back [my wrath]. They sell the righteous for silver, and the needy for a pair of sandals. They trample on the heads of the poor as upon the dust of the ground and deny justice to the oppressed. Father and son use the same girl and so profane my holy name.'" Amos 2:6-7
Or-
"They have grown fat and sleek. Their evil deeds have no limit; they do not plead the case of the fatherless to win it, they do not defend the rights of the poor." Jeremiah 5:28
And Jesus had a few choice words, too:
"They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely." Mark 12:40
Or-
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed." Luke 4:18
Capitalism can be made better. Much Better, but it will never be endorsed by God.
Welcome to RevGalBlogPals, April. I'm a newbee too as of last month. :) I've enjoyed your blog so far. Love your line, "Capitalism is Evil and Greed is Her Bitch." Oh so true. And works the other way around, too. Greed is Evil and Capitalism is Her Bitch.
ReplyDeleteBlessings on your journey!! Rebecca