RECONCILING LIBERTARIANISM AND CONCERN FOR THE 'COMMON GOOD' - STEPHANIE SLADE

Summary

In this thought-provoking talk, the speaker explores the intersection of Catholic teachings and libertarian principles, specifically regarding the concept of the common good. Drawing from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the speaker explains how values like freedom, justice, peace, and material well-being are essential for human flourishing. They discuss the compatibility between individual liberty and the common good, while critiquing the rise of common good conservatism, which advocates for government intervention to enforce public morality. Ultimately, the speaker argues that liberty and the common good are not mutually exclusive and that individual freedom is necessary for achieving societal prosperity and spiritual fulfillment.

Takeaways

• 😀 The common good in Catholic social teaching includes respect for the person, social well-being, stability, and security.
• 😀 The common good is shared and cannot be divided among individuals like private property (e.g., air and sunshine are common goods, but cars are not).
• 😀 Examples of the common good include peace, justice, and material abundance (economic well-being).
• 😀 Libertarians argue that both deontological and consequentialist arguments support freedom, which aligns with the Catholic concept of the common good.
• 😀 Respecting individual autonomy and liberty is closely tied to the Catholic belief in treating people as ends in themselves, not means.
• 😀 A well-functioning economy that creates material abundance benefits everyone and is part of the common good, but individual gains from corrupt practices do not count as a common good.
• 😀 The speaker, as both a Catholic and a libertarian, believes that liberty is necessary for human flourishing and the common good, even though it is not sufficient on its own.
• 😀 The speaker critiques 'common good conservatives' who advocate for using state power to enforce moral values and regulate society's behavior.
• 😀 Libertarians believe in a minimal state, focusing on protecting freedom and individual rights, rather than imposing specific moral or cultural outcomes.
• 😀 The highest good for Catholics is union with God in heaven, and individual liberty is essential for this ultimate goal, as free will allows people to seek God freely.

Q & A

What is the 'common good' according to Catholic teaching?

The common good in Catholic teaching involves respect for the person, social well-being, and stability. It is understood as a shared benefit that promotes the flourishing of all members of society.

How is the common good different from private goods?

The common good is inherently shared and cannot be divided, such as air and sunshine, which benefit everyone. In contrast, private goods, like a car, are individual possessions and are not part of the common good.

Can the concept of the common good be divided among individuals?

No, the common good cannot be divided into individual pieces. It is a collective benefit that is available to everyone, such as the enjoyment of public goods like peace, justice, and material abundance.

What are some concrete examples of the common good mentioned in the transcript?

The common good is represented by peace, justice, and material abundance. These elements benefit society as a whole and contribute to human flourishing.

How do libertarian values align with the concept of the common good?

Libertarian values align with the common good because they advocate for freedom, which leads to good outcomes like peace, justice, and prosperity. These values are seen as necessary conditions for human flourishing.

What is the difference between deontological and consequentialist arguments for freedom?

Deontological arguments focus on moral principles, arguing that individuals deserve to be treated as ends in themselves. Consequentialist arguments emphasize the practical benefits of freedom, such as a happier and more prosperous society.

What does the speaker mean by 'freedom-enhancing institutions'?

Freedom-enhancing institutions, such as private property, free trade, and limited government, are necessary for human flourishing. While not sufficient on their own, they are essential conditions for achieving the common good.

What is 'common good conservatism' and how does it differ from libertarian views?

'Common good conservatism' advocates for using government power to promote moral values and achieve the common good. This contrasts with libertarian views, which resist government intervention in personal choices and emphasize individual liberty.

What role does the state play in 'common good conservatism'?

In 'common good conservatism,' the state is seen as a tool to enforce moral values and social order, often through coercion, to achieve the common good. This approach contrasts with libertarianism, which limits state intervention.

What is the highest good according to Catholic teaching, and how does it relate to individual liberty?

The highest good, according to Catholic teaching, is union with God in heaven. Individual liberty is necessary to pursue this ultimate good because humans must be free to seek God and fulfill their potential. Liberty is seen as a requirement for achieving this highest good.