May 05 2008
Is Catholicism and Socialism Incompatible?
This was the jist of a question asked on a forum of which I am a member. Although Socialism seems to have many redeeming aspects, I would have to say, in its current form, no.
Consider this. Liberation Theology which combined Marxism (the ultimate form of Socialism) and Christianity was condemned by the Church. Socialism (especially its extreme forms like Marxism and Nazism) is inherently anti-religion and violent in nature.
In addition government control does not necessarily mean contributing to the general welfare. In many cases, it actually harms the general populace through rationing of food and healthcare and the burdensome beaurocracy. Free will is removed from the people since every aspect of life is controlled by the state of which, in many case, they are considered property.
Furthermore, socialism has given rise to relativism, which is increasing imploding society.
No, socialism in its many current forms is not the answer but the problem.
