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The Poor are the Solution, Not the Problem
R&L: In the first sentence of your book, The Mystery of Capital, you write, “The hour of capitalism’s greatest triumph is its hour of crisis.” The great triumph, of course, is capitalism’s victory over communism. What is the great crisis? De Soto: Everyone had high expectations at the fall of the Berlin Wall, when we thought that the “end of history” was in sight because market economies would allow all to flourish, but now there is a general feeling of discontent.Religious Education Indispensable for Free Society
R&L: How do you view the role of higher education—and of distinctively religious schools, in particular—in a free society?God's gift of freedom must be used to choose the good
R&L: Pope John Paul II, in his Encyclical Letter Centesimus Annus, noted that, “The individual today is often suffocated between the two poles represented by the state and the market.” You have noted that the way out of this modern dilemma is the strengthening of culture. Could you elaborate?
Judeo-Christian Tradition Best Basis for Environmentalism
R&L: Although, on its face, the environmental movement seems to be about economics and politics, you have argued that, at root, it is a spiritual movement. Describe the theology at the foundation of environmentalism.
Christianity the Key to Dignity and Fulfillment at Work
R&L: It is commonly held that it is impossible to be both a faithful Christian and a good businessman. How do you respond to this view? Beckett: This view is indeed common, but it is seriously flawed. Based on that logic, we would have to assume the Apostle Paul was not a good businessman when he was making and selling tents. More likely, he was an exemplary businessman, his products high in quality, fair in price. Can you see the people lined up to buy his tents?Changed Hearts, Not Politics, Prompt Social Renewal
R&L: In some Christian circles, social action has taken precedence over evangelism. I am here thinking of the way that the pursuit of social justice has taken the place of the proclamation of the Gospel. What are your thoughts on this trend?Free Markets Best Protect the Environment
R&L: Now that communism has been defeated and discredited, many see radical environmentalism as the next great threat to freedom. Do you agree with this analysis?
Local Communities Are Charity's Resource of First Resort
R&L: What are your views on the nature of the welfare state and the need for its reform?Good Financial Stewardship Part of God's Economy
R&L: As a Christian financial advisor, how do you understand the connection between your faith and the world of economics and finances?Religion, Morality, and the Private Property Order
R&L: You have been long involved in the late-twentieth-century revival of the freedom philosophy, especially with your involvement in the Foundation for Economic Education (fee). In addition, you are a Congregationalist minister. Why do you think it is important for ministers to be grounded in sound economic thinking?Christianity, the Foundation and Conservator of Freedom
R&L: You have often described yourself as an arch-liberal. The word liberalism has very different meanings in the United States and Europe. Could you explain the differences of those understandings of this term?Virtue a Prerequisite for Economic and Political Freedom
R&L: In addition to managing one of the most successful investment firms in the nation, you are also a vigorous philanthropist, regularly funding such things as Christian outreach to the inner city. How is this related to your Christian commitment?