Is economic conservatism inconsistent with religious belief? Ping to Today show list.
Are religious beliefs inconsistent with economic conservatism?
Oh man, talk about splitting the Republican Co-alition.
While it can be shown historically that religious freedom and economic freedom are inexplicably tied together, it can also be demonstrated philosophically. Economic systems are fundamentally based on private property rights stemming from “you shouldn’t steal” (private property), and “you shouldn’t covet” which are fundamentally religious and moral principles. Voluntary exchange of goods and services is a moral and religious system as much as it is an economic system.
This premise can be supported with many examples...
Reagan understood this and articulated it in one of the greatest political speechs of all time(the 'evil empire' speech): The American experiment in democracy rests on this insight. Its discovery was the great triumph of our Founding Fathers, voiced by William Penn when he said: "If we will not be governed by God, we must be governed by tyrants." Explaining the inalienable rights of men, Jefferson said, "The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time." And it was George Washington who said that "of all the disposition and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supporters."
When the despotic democrats seek to erode our economic freedom with high taxes and socialism they also chip away at our religious freedom. When democrats subvert our religious freedom by indoctrination into the anti-God religion of liberalism, they subvert our economic freedom as the two are indispensibly tied together.
***Is economic conservatism inconsistent with religious belief?***
Interesting question for discussion. I would argue that the two go hand in hand. Majority of our tax money goes to fund liberal groups that promote abortion services and the homosexual agenda under the guise of diversity training. Big Govt programs actually reduce church attendence. For example, just look Europe. Socialist programs are the norm and there are little church goers.
I believe economic conservatism ONLY works in Christian environment. Many founding fathers agreed. As we move farther and farther from the Christian ethic in our daily lives (as a country) the excess of democracy and freedom become more and more pronounced and socially destructive.