Description
Book SynopsisThis book examines the perspectives of American liberalism and conservatism in the new millenniumtheir general political and social philosophy and their positions in leading public issue areasand evaluates them in light of Catholic social teaching. Before making that evaluation, it sets out the Church's teaching as it has been authoritatively set forth in documents from her Magisteriumespecially the social encyclicals. It looks to recognized thinkers, writers, and spokesmen for each of the two ideologies to determine what their general philosophy is in six major, central areas: the role of the state; God, religion, and the natural law as the basis of the political order; the family; the thinking on freedom; the thinking about equality; and international life and ethics. Since American conservatism has been known for having different groupings or schools of thought within itin the new millennium these are traditionalist conservatism, paleoconservatism, cultural or religious-based conser
Trade ReviewInformative and stimulating, this book will be of value to those new to Catholic social thought and those seeking to refine their understanding of its contemporary prospects. It ought to be in the hands of anyone interested in the revival of liberty and justice amidst the creeping chaos and collectivism of contemporary political society. * Catholic Social Science Review *
Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Chapter 1: The Nature of Liberalism and Conservatism, and Their Relationship to American Catholics Chapter 2: A Summary of Catholic Social Teaching from the Social Encyclicals and Other Church Documents Chapter 3: Comparing American Liberalism and Church Teaching Chapter 4: Comparing American Conservatism and Church Teaching Chapter 5: Conclusion Index About the Author
