Description
Book SynopsisExplores ethical implications of the practice of debt. By placing debt in the context of anthropology, philosophy, economics, and the ethical traditions provided by the Abrahamic religions, Ilsup Ahn holds that debt was originally a form of gift, a gift that was intended as a means to serve humanity.
Trade ReviewEver since the 2008 financial crisis, the issue of increasing private and public debts has become topical in the field of the humanities and social sciences. Ilsup Ahn's
Just Debt: Theology, Ethics, and Neoliberalism contributes to an already lively debate by situating the discussion on the terrain of religious morality." - Jean François Bissonnette,
Reading Religion "Ahn impressively crafts an ethical discussion that is wide-ranging, engaging and readable, and draws on diverse voices and traditions. It should broadly interest social ethicists, economists and philosophers. His compelling proposal for 'just debt' balances realism and hope, and seems a feasible and timely intervention. Numerous examples and case studies winsomely illustrate his argument." Jacob Rollison, Studies in Christian Ethics
"This is an important and well-researched book that expands a conversation about wealth inequalities and poverty among theologians, ethicists, and religious leaders. It will be of particular interest to leaders in the ecumenical movement." - Elizabeth Hinson-Hasty, Interpretation: A Journal of Bible and Theology
"The author does what many theorists find difficult in that he is able to hold in tension a systematic critique of neoliberalism alongside a hopeful vision of a reconstructed economy of debt which 'preserves social cohesion and solidarity.' This book is a wonderful resource for both advanced undergraduate and graduate-level classes on economics viewed from the lens of religious ethics." - B. Scott Stephens, Religious Studies Review
"The book offers a helpful introduction to complex issues, and is marked by admirable symmetry within and among its chapters. Furthermore, in his exposition and evaluation, Ahn strikes a tone that is warmly passionate and grounded in Christian conviction, without resorting to illogical hyperbole or ideological shrillness. As a result, scholars from several disciplines (including comparative religion, anthropology, and political philosophy), as well as Christians who simply desire to learn more about economic ethics, will discover in Just Debt a compelling read." - Joshua Beckett, Christian Scholars Review
"…Ahn's book is an important resource for readers concerned with global debt and economic justice, as well as those interested in applying interreligious scholarship to social ethics." - Andrew Stone Porter, Journal of the Society of Christian Ethics
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- 1. The History and Taxonomy of Amoral Debt
- 2. Neoliberal Financialization and the Idea of Just Debt
- 3. Unpayable Debt and the Ethics of Default and Bankruptcy
- 4. Islamic Financial Ethics and the Case against Rentier Economy of Debt
- 5. Jewish Ethics of Jubilee and the Question of Debt Forgiveness
- 6. Christianity and a Virtue Ethics of Debt
- Conclusion
