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Faith Essential Ingredient of Democratic Capitalism
R&L: You opened your essay in Reinventing the American People, a recent book from the Ethics and Public Policy Center, by noting that a long line of political theorists, dating back to the days of the Romans, would regard you as “a dangerous man, a threat to the public order” because you are “an orthodox Christian.” What is the appropriate way for Christians to be political?Civilization Held Together by Persuasion, Not Force
R&L: You have written, “The triumph of persuasion over force is the sign of a civilized society.” Could you explain what you mean by this?There is a Crucial Link Between Culture and Economics
R&L: Do you agree with Josef Schumpeter’s thesis that capitalism is ultimately destructive of both itself and the culture within which it operates?Christianity, Classical Liberalism are Liberty's Foundations
R&L: Explain the difference between classical liberalism and modern liberalism.Economics Raises Profoundly Moral Questions
R&L: You are a professor of economics and a Christian. How do you understand the relationship between your faith and your field of study?Changed Hearts, Not Politics, Prompt Social Renewal
R&L: In some Christian circles, social action has taken precedence over evangelism. I am here thinking of the way that the pursuit of social justice has taken the place of the proclamation of the Gospel. What are your thoughts on this trend?Free Markets Best Protect the Environment
R&L: Now that communism has been defeated and discredited, many see radical environmentalism as the next great threat to freedom. Do you agree with this analysis?
Local Communities Are Charity's Resource of First Resort
R&L: What are your views on the nature of the welfare state and the need for its reform?Good Financial Stewardship Part of God's Economy
R&L: As a Christian financial advisor, how do you understand the connection between your faith and the world of economics and finances?Religion, Morality, and the Private Property Order
R&L: You have been long involved in the late-twentieth-century revival of the freedom philosophy, especially with your involvement in the Foundation for Economic Education (fee). In addition, you are a Congregationalist minister. Why do you think it is important for ministers to be grounded in sound economic thinking?Christianity, the Foundation and Conservator of Freedom
R&L: You have often described yourself as an arch-liberal. The word liberalism has very different meanings in the United States and Europe. Could you explain the differences of those understandings of this term?Virtue a Prerequisite for Economic and Political Freedom
R&L: In addition to managing one of the most successful investment firms in the nation, you are also a vigorous philanthropist, regularly funding such things as Christian outreach to the inner city. How is this related to your Christian commitment?