Economics in Christian Perspective: Theory, Policy and Life Choices

In this time when free markets and the capitalist system are both under severe attack, this book is more relavent than ever. It is well written and presents a viewpoint on Economics from a Christian perspective that is badly needed today. So many Christian leaders, especially clergy, have a very poor understanding of economic matters and often take a point of view that is very detrimental to the poor. No person who calls himself a Christian can say they don't care about the poor. This book is a must reading for any Christian who cares about people and their well-being.

As a seminary grad and an aspiring armchair economist, I want to commend Victor Claar and Robin Klay for writing Economics in Christian Perspective. Inspired by the work of the Acton Institute, I have been seeking to gain a better grasp on contemporary economic issues, and was pleased to find their book listed under Acton's Studies in Ethics and Economics. For someone who formerly had great difficulty understanding (or even staying awake in) my undergrad economics courses, I can say that their book is a welcome re-introduction to the field, and probably one the most balanced and practical resources I have read to date on mainstream economics. I only wish I could have been exposed to this perspective earlier on in my education!

As a student of economics and christian, I am very pleased that exists christians who understand that theorical and applied economics have a relationship with many aspects of the life. And the authors show how we can relate the christian ethic and principles with the economic theory, and show that economics doesn't need to be a "godless" science (by the way, any area of scientific resarch doesn't need to be "godless"). One of the great points in this book is that this is not a worship of the austrian economics, neither liberation theology, and shows that both goverment and markets are necessary for economic development, but they add a third sector: churches, communities, charities and other institutions which work for the public welfare without direct influence of the goverment and markets. In the chapter "Work and Vacation", Klay writes about how her career evolved, and this helped me in my doubts. The books also shows that markets can really be good for the people, specially for the poor. Instead of complain and do nothing, we should use the markets to help each others, and we should be careful with the temptations. It's an analysis of policy and theory, but it does have controversial viewpoints, such as a critique of the minimum wage and the defence of a greater role for the market than the goverment. But I have a complaint: the authors see the multinational corporations with pink glasses, and they don't acknowledge that the corporations are not so friendly with the governments of the third world nations or, sometimes, are friendly in corrupt affairs. This is a good book and I recommend. The last chapter and the epilogue are perfect for their role: a conclusion, and they show how the gospel can change the community for better and, if we change the communitie, we can change the world. P.S.: The book also focused in the mainstream economics, and I would suggest that in the next editions, there could be appendix on heterodox economics.

Amidst my MBA studies at a top school known for leading the way in economic thinking, I found this book to be a very helpful complement to the curriculum. Professors Clay and Claar demonstrate mastery of economic theory by explaining and exploring concepts in ways that will enlighten the mind of an educated economist and lay person alike. While most Christians will have studied economics from an agnostic perspective, this book helps to provide the Christian with a framework to think about how to bring God's values to bear on a wide variety of societal and policy issues. The topics include third world poverty, income disparities, unemployment, global trade and the role of government. The authors strive to provide the nuances of complex issues, but also offer clear, tangible suggestions as to how Christians might approach these issues. I highly recommend this book to anyone, economist or not, who is interested in developing more sophisticated, well-reasoned views on the great economic matters of the day through the lens of Christianity.

There is considerable debate in the public square these days about a number of issues that have significant economic components. Globalization, environmental protection, and aiding the poor are just a few. Decisions we make in our personal lives are influenced by our assumptions about economic realities as well. So how might mainstream economics connect with Christian Values and principles? Victor Claar and Robin Klay, both professors of economics at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, address these topics in the book. It's a wonderful read. The book has eleven chapters, each devoted to a particular issue like the role of government, creation care, discerning vocation and caring for the poor versus worrying about the income gap. The writing style is engaging. If you have a just a rudimentary grasp of some basic economic concepts the book should be intelligible. If not, you may find yourself having to work some in a couple of spots. But what is truly refreshing is the careful and respectful manner in which differing views are presented on some controversial topics even as the authors reveal their takes on issues. The book is neither a social justice harangue nor a libertarian manifesto, just solid Christian reflection on the implications of mainstream economic thought. The authors conclude the book with "Nine Big Ideas from Economics That Can Help You Be a Good Steward Every Day." 1. For everything you do, there is something you are choosing to leave undone. 2. The anticipated social benefit of any policy proposal must be seriously weighed against every likely social opportunity cost. 3. Actions speak louder than words. 4. Markets move precious resource from less-valuable to more-valuable. 5. Job creation is rightly viewed as a cost, not a benefit, of any initiative. 6. Free international trade is a proven way to help the world's poorest people. 7. Hope for a better future may require temporary discomfort today. 8. Corrupt governments keep the poor down. 9. Sunk costs are sunk. I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting a thoughtful reflection on the interaction between faith and economics!