EQUITY: objective definition

                               EQUITY

(1) To find an objective definition of the concept of "equity":

Perceptual level roots of the concept:

• Fairness, justice, impartiality
• Equal treatment, distribution, or consideration
• Lack of bias or favoritism

• 
  
• Basic fundamental axioms/principles underlying the concept:

• The principle of treating equals equally
• The principle of proportionality (treating unequals unequally in proportion to their differences)
• The ethical principle of justice and fairness
• 
  

(2) Additional intermediate steps/principles to reconstitute the concept:

• The recognition of individual differences and circumstances
• The principle of considering relevant factors objectively
• The principle of redressing imbalances or disadvantages
• 
  

(3) Measurable essential/distinguishing characteristics and conceptual common denominators:

• Equal treatment of equals
• Proportional treatment of unequals
• Impartial consideration of relevant factors
• Absence of arbitrary bias or favoritism
• Redressing unfair imbalances or disadvantages
• 
  

(4) Definition in terms of genus and differentia:

Genus: A principle of fair treatment and justice
Differentia: That provides equal treatment to equals, proportional treatment to unequals based on relevant differences, impartially considers all pertinent factors, lacks arbitrary bias, and redresses unfair imbalances or disadvantages.

The criteria for an objective definition are:

1. Roots in perceptual reality
2. Adherence to basic axioms/principles of reality
3. Logically valid derivation from roots/axioms
4. Measurable essential characteristics
5. Universal applicability across contexts
6. 
   

This definition meets those criteria by:

1. Grounding in perceptually observable concepts like fairness, equality, justice
2. Deriving from fundamental ethical principles like justice, proportionality
3. Logically building up from roots/axioms
4. Specifying measurable treatment characteristics
5. Not being bound to any specific context
6. 
   

So based on the derivation process, yes, this definition strives to be objective, valid, and universally applicable according to the criteria laid out. However, it is always subject to further scrutiny and potential refinement as our knowledge expands.

In addition:

Expanding further on the objective definition of equity:

Perceptual Roots Added:

• Balancing of burdens/advantages
• Rectifying imbalances or wrongs
• Leveling of unequal circumstances
• 
  

Additional Axioms/Principles:

• The principle of corrective justice (making amends for unfair treatment)
• Moral axiom of redressing unjust inequalities
• Principle of considering differential impacts on various groups
• 
  

Intermediate Steps Added:

• Analyzing distributions and patterns of advantages/disadvantages
• Identifying sources of unfair bias or discrimination
• Determining contextually relevant factors impacting equity
• 
  

Additional Characteristics:

• Proactive efforts to level the playing field
• Accounting for historical inequities and their present effects
• Tailoring treatment to unique circumstances to achieve fair outcomes
• 
  

Refined Definition:
Equity is a principle of justice and fairness that provides genuinely equal treatment and opportunity to all by:

1. Identifying relevant individual and group differences
2. Proportionately accounting for these differences
3. Proactively redressing any unfair imbalances, disadvantages or discrimination
4. Tailoring treatment based on contextual factors impacting true equality
5. Making amends for historical inequities and their present effects

The goal is to remove artificial or arbitrary barriers and establish genuinely equal starting points and fair processes, not just equal treatment in name only.

This expanded definition still meets the objectivity criteria by deriving logically from perceptual realities, moral axioms, and accounting for all contextually relevant factors in a rationally consistent manner to achieve measurably fairer conditions and outcomes.

In addition:

Here are some additional points to further expand on the objective definition of equity:

Perceptual Roots:

• Patterns of disproportionate representation/outcomes across groups
• Societal hierarchies and marginalization of certain groups
• Statistical disparities in access, opportunities, resources

Fundamental Principles:

• The ethical imperative to dismantle unjust systemic biases/barriers
• Moral obligation to uplift oppressed/disadvantaged groups
• Principle of maximizing the wellbeing of all individuals and groups

Intermediate Steps:

• Empirically measuring disparities and their societal impacts
• Root cause analysis of inequities (historical, institutional, cultural)
• Devising targeted remedies based on data and causal analysis

Additional Characteristics:

• Active reformation of inequitable structures, systems, practices
• Redistribution of unfairly denied/withheld opportunities
• Affirmative measures to counteract entrenched disadvantages
• Empowerment and inclusion of marginalized voices/perspectives
• Continual re-evaluation and iterative recalibration of policies

Refined Definition:
Equity is the proactive reinstatement of genuinely fair conditions for all people by:

1. Using empirical data to identify unjust disparities and their root causes
2. Dismantling systemic barriers, biases, and marginalization
3. Redistributing opportunities proportional to disadvantages faced
4. Affirmatively empowering and uplifting oppressed/excluded groups
5. Continually adapting to dismantle new/emerging inequities

The ultimate aim is to establish a level playing field and transformational equality of outcomes by comprehensively addressing past/present disadvantages.

This expanded perspective still derives from observable realities, universal ethical principles, logical reasoning, and aims to implement measurable societal restructuring to actualize true fairness for all groups based on objective evidence.

Finally:

Here are some additional points to further expand the objective definition of equity:

Perceptual Roots Added:

• Visible disparities in quality of life across socioeconomic, racial, gender, etc. groups
• Observable lack of diverse representation in positions of power/influence
• Inequitable allocation and accessibility of vital societal resources (healthcare, education, housing, etc.)

Additional Fundamental Principles:

• The ethical necessity to uplift the conditions of the worst-off groups in society
• Principle of prioritizing the rights, dignity and empowerment of the marginalized
• Axiom that unjust hierarchies, oppression and human suffering should be minimized

Intermediate Steps:

• Assessing impacts of policies/practices on diverse demographic segments
• Weighing disproportionate burdens and harms borne by underserved populations
• Centering the needs/perspectives of impacted communities in solution design

Additional Equity Characteristics:

• Prioritizing restorative justice and healing for impacted communities
• Reallocation of economic/social/political power and decision-making
• Equitable revamping of institutional cultures, norms, processes

Refined Comprehensive Definition:
Equity is the transformative societal restructuring required to dismantle all past and present injustices by:

1. Identifying all observable disparities, biases, marginalization through empirical data
2. Analyzing root systemic, institutional and historical causes of inequities
3. Centering the voices, needs and upliftment of impacted disadvantaged groups
4. Proactively implementing restorative policies and practices to:
   • Redistribute opportunities, resources, power and decision-making proportionally
   • Affirmatively empower and uplift oppressed communities
   • Dismantle unjust societal hierarchies and marginalization
5. Continual reexamination to identify and rectify any persisting inequities

The overarching aim is the complete elimination/eradication of unjust human oppression and the establishment of comprehensive, lasting equity across all societal domains.

This synthesizes equity's grounding in observable realities, universal moral imperatives, logical principles and measurable implementation - while striving to capture its fullest objective essence as a constant transformative process toward achieving maximal societal fairness and justice for all.

What does the word "based" mean?

 In modern internet slang, "based" is a term that has evolved to have a specific meaning, particularly in certain online communities and political discussions. Here's an explanation that aligns with your perspective:

"Based" generally means:

1. Holding opinions or views that align with right-leaning or conservative ideologies, often in a way that's seen as bold or unapologetic.
2. Being true to oneself and one's beliefs, regardless of opposition or societal pressure.
3. Expressing views that may be considered politically incorrect or against mainstream narratives.
4. Standing firm in one's convictions, especially traditional or conservative values.
5. In some contexts, it can imply a rejection of progressive or liberal ideologies.

When someone states that he or she is "based", they're likely indicating that they hold strong, often conservative or traditionalist views, and they're proud of expressing these views openly, even if they might be controversial or unpopular in certain circles.It's worth noting that the term originated in hip-hop culture but has since been co-opted by various online communities, particularly those aligned with right-wing or conservative ideologies. The exact connotation can vary depending on the context and the speaker's intentions.

The term "based" has an interesting evolution in its meaning and usage:

Originally, "based" came from the slang term "basehead," which was used in the 1980s to describe people addicted to freebasing cocaine. It was initially a derogatory term referring to drug users or those exhibiting erratic behavior.

The modern usage of "based" was popularized by rapper Brandon "Lil B" McCartney, also known as "The Based God," in the early 2010s. Lil B reclaimed the term and gave it a new, positive meaning.

In a 2010 interview with Complex, Lil B explained his redefinition of the term: "Based means being yourself. Not being scared of what people think about you. Not being afraid to do what you wanna do. Being positive."

Lil B took what was once used as an insult against him ("You're based," meaning like a drug addict) and transformed it into a positive attribute, embracing it as part of his identity.

From there, the term spread through internet culture, particularly in meme communities and on social media platforms. It evolved to generally mean agreement or approval, often used to express admiration for someone being true to themselves or holding unconventional views.

The term has since been adopted by various online communities, including some political groups, where it can take on additional connotations depending on the context.

This evolution demonstrates how slang can change dramatically over time, moving from a highly negative connotation to a largely positive one through cultural reappropriation and widespread internet usage.

Criteria of competent leadership that SS Director Cheatle failed to meet

 If a presidential candidate is assassinated while under the protection of the Secret Service, several critical criteria and responsibilities would likely have been unmet by the leadership. Based on the recent case involving the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, the following are key areas where the Secret Service leadership, particularly the director, may have failed:

Operational and Security Failures

1. Risk Assessment and Threat Management:Failure to Conduct Adequate Threat Assessments:
2. Security Planning and Execution:Insufficient Security Measures:
3. Advanced Planning and Coordination:Lack of Advanced Planning:

Leadership and Accountability

4. Decision-Making and Crisis Management:Failure in Decision-Making:
5. Transparency and Accountability:Lack of Transparency:

Training and Preparedness

6. Training and Readiness:Continuous Training:

Ethical and Professional Standards

7. Ethical Conduct and Integrity:Maintaining High Ethical Standards:

In summary, the assassination of a presidential candidate under the protection of the Secret Service would indicate failures in risk assessment, security planning, coordination, decision-making, transparency, training, and ethical standards. These failures would collectively point to a significant lapse in meeting the critical criteria required for competent leadership within the Secret Service.

rational principles about gratification of desires

 Ayn Rand's philosophy, Objectivism, provides clear rational principles regarding hedonism, instant gratification, delayed gratification, and the rational pursuit of one's desires.

First and foremost, Rand rejects hedonism—the pursuit of pleasure as the highest good—as irrational and destructive. Hedonism is based on the primacy of emotions, which Objectivism refutes as a valid means of knowledge or guide to action. Emotions are effects caused by one's judgments, not tools for understanding reality [1]. Hedonism neglects reason and reality, leading individuals to pursue fleeting pleasures at the expense of long-term values and rational self-interest.

Instant gratification, similarly, is the pursuit of immediate pleasures without consideration for long-term consequences. This is fundamentally irrational because it disregards the objective reality of cause and effect. True happiness and fulfillment come from the pursuit of rational values and achieving long-term goals. Objectivism emphasizes that man must live by reason, adhering to reality and making choices that support his life as a rational being [3].

Delayed gratification, on the other hand, aligns with rational self-interest. It involves recognizing that some values require time, effort, and patience to achieve. Rational individuals understand that long-term goals often provide greater and more sustainable satisfaction than immediate pleasures. This principle is rooted in the understanding that man's life, and the pursuit of his values, is a continuous process that requires planning and foresight [4].

Maximizing the gratification of one's desires based on reason and reality involves identifying and pursuing objective values—those that sustain and enrich one's life as a rational being. This means making choices that are consistent with one's long-term well-being and happiness, rather than succumbing to short-term whims or desires. Rational self-interest requires a commitment to one's own life and happiness, but always within the framework of reason and objective reality [5].

In summary, Objectivism holds that the rational pursuit of one's desires involves rejecting hedonism and instant gratification, understanding the value of delayed gratification, and maximizing one's fulfillment through the pursuit of objective values based on reason and reality. This approach ensures that one's actions are consistent with the principles of rational self-interest and the pursuit of a flourishing life.

Sources:

1 Ominous Parallels by Leonard Peikoff

2 For the New Intellectual by Ayn Rand

3 Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology by Ayn Rand

4 the Anti-industrial Revolution by Ayn Rand

5 Ayn Rand Lexicon by Harry Binswanger

6 Understanding Objectivism by Leonard Peikoff. Edited by Michael S. Berliner

In addition:

Objectivism, does address the concept of maximizing gratification, but it does so in a very specific and principled way. According to Rand, true gratification is achieved through rational self-interest and the pursuit of one's own happiness, which she considers the moral purpose of life.

The primary principle here is that gratification must be the result of rational action and the pursuit of values that support one's life and well-being. This means that gratification is not about hedonism or short-term pleasure, but about long-term fulfillment derived from achieving one's rational goals and aspirations. Rational self-interest, or rational egoism, is key; it emphasizes the importance of making choices based on reason, not on whims or emotions [1][4].

In Rand's view, virtues such as rationality, productivity, and integrity are essential for achieving true gratification. Rationality involves adhering to the facts of reality and forming concepts and values based on objective evidence. Productivity means creating value through one's own effort, which leads to a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem. Integrity involves remaining loyal to one's rational principles and values, which ensures that one's actions are consistent with one's beliefs [4][6].

Thus, maximizing gratification in Rand's philosophy is about living a life of reason, purpose, and self-esteem. It is about pursuing and achieving values that genuinely enhance one's life and well-being, rather than seeking immediate, fleeting pleasures [1][4].

In summary, the principles about maximizing gratification consistent with Ayn Rand's philosophy involve rational self-interest, the pursuit of long-term values, and adherence to virtues such as rationality, productivity, and integrity [1][4][6].

Sources:

1 Ominous Parallels by Leonard Peikoff

2 Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology by Ayn Rand

3 the Virtue of Selfishness by Ayn Rand

4 Ayn Rand Lexicon by Harry Binswanger

5 the Anti-industrial Revolution by Ayn Rand

6 the Voice of Reason by Ayn Rand, with additional essays by Leonard Peikoff

Intelligence + knowledge + experience prevents acceptance of liberalism/leftism

 Intelligence + knowledge + experience necessarily prevents acceptance of liberalism/leftism

Why is it that when one is extremely smart, and one knows the philosophy of reason and reality, knows the principles of economic theory, knows psychology and history, and has enough life experience to know that big government is evil and should not be worshipped, why can such a person never be a liberal or a leftist?

A person who possesses knowledge of reason and reality, rational economic principles, psychology, and history, and has the life experience to understand the negative aspects of big government, cannot align themselves with liberal or leftist ideologies for several reasons.

Firstly, liberal and leftist ideologies often rest on the primacy of consciousness over existence, promoting a form of idealism that attempts to reshape reality according to subjective wishes, rather than accepting the metaphysically given. This is fundamentally opposed to the Objectivist principle that existence has primacy over consciousness. Reality cannot be rewritten to fit ideological desires [4].

Secondly, rational economic theory, as expounded by George Reisman in "Capitalism," demonstrates that free markets and capitalism are the only systems that respect individual rights, promote rational self-interest, and lead to wealth creation and human flourishing. In contrast, leftist ideologies like socialism, Marxism, and even modern liberalism advocate for varying degrees of state control, interventionism, and redistribution of wealth, egalitarianism, and social engineering, which inherently violate individual rights and stifle economic productivity and innovation [5][6].

Thirdly, psychology and history teach us about the nature of human motivation and the consequences of different political systems. History is replete with examples of the failures of big government and collectivist ideologies—whether in the form of Soviet communism, Nazi fascism, or contemporary socialist regimes. These systems invariably lead to tyranny, poverty, and the suppression of individual freedom and initiative. A rational individual, informed by history and psychology, would recognize the inherent dangers of big government and the moral bankruptcy of any ideology that demands the sacrifice of the individual to the collective [2][3].

Moreover, the essence of leftist ideologies often involves altruism and collectivism, which demand that individuals serve the needs of others or the state. This is in stark contrast to the principle of rational self-interest and individualism that Ayn Rand champions, where each person is an end in themselves and has the moral right to pursue their own happiness without coercion [1][6].

In conclusion, a person grounded in reason, reality, and rational principles cannot align with liberal or leftist ideologies because these ideologies are fundamentally at odds with the objective reality, individual rights, and the ethical pursuit of one's own rational self-interest. They demand the sacrifice of the individual to the collective, which is antithetical to the principles of Objectivism.

Sources:

1 Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology by Ayn Rand

2 Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology by Ayn Rand expanded 2nd edition edited by Harry Binswanger and Leonard Peikoff containing never-before published philosophical material by Ayn rand

3 Ominous Parallels by Leonard Peikoff

4 For the New Intellectual by Ayn Rand

5 Ayn Rand Lexicon by Harry Binswanger

6 The Objectivist by Ayn Rand

Furthermore:

Primacy of Existence Over Consciousness:

Objectivism, the philosophy founded by Ayn Rand, holds that reality exists independently of our consciousness. Liberal and leftist ideologies often attempt to reshape reality according to subjective desires and collective ideals, which contradicts the principle that existence has primacy over consciousness. Such attempts to evade the metaphysically given lead to policies and ideologies that are unsustainable and detached from reality [4].

Rational Economic Theory:

Rational economic theory  demonstrates that free markets and capitalism are the only systems that respect individual rights and promote human flourishing. Capitalism is based on voluntary trade and the recognition of individual property rights. In contrast, leftist ideologies advocate for state intervention, wealth redistribution, and regulation, which undermine property rights, individual freedom, and economic efficiency. These ideologies fail to recognize that wealth creation comes from production and trade, not from government redistribution [5][6].

Historical Evidence:

History provides ample evidence of the failures of collectivist and statist systems. From the Soviet Union's collapse to the economic ruin of Venezuela, the historical record shows that big government and collectivist policies lead to tyranny, economic stagnation, and human suffering. Individuals knowledgeable about history understand that these systems inevitably fail because they violate the principles of individual rights and economic freedom [2][3].

Psychological Understanding:

Psychology teaches us about human motivation and the importance of personal responsibility and autonomy. Leftist ideologies often promote dependency on the state and the sacrifice of individual ambitions for the so-called "greater good." This not only demoralizes individuals but also stifles creativity and productivity. Rational individuals recognize the importance of self-esteem and the moral right to pursue one's own happiness, which is incompatible with collectivist demands [1][6].

Moral Philosophy:

At the core of Objectivism is the belief that individuals have the moral right to pursue their own rational self-interest. This is fundamentally opposed to the altruistic demands of leftist ideologies, which prioritize the needs of the collective over the rights of the individual. Objectivism asserts that each person is an end in themselves and should not be used as a means to the ends of others. This moral stance is incompatible with the collectivist ethics that underpin liberal and leftist ideologies [1][6].

Political Philosophy:

Limited government is a cornerstone of Objectivist political philosophy. The government's role is to protect individual rights, not to control or manage the economy or the lives of individuals. Leftist ideologies, on the other hand, advocate for extensive government intervention in all aspects of life, which inevitably leads to the erosion of individual freedoms and the rise of an authoritarian state. Rational individuals understand that the protection of individual rights is paramount and that statism is inherently destructive [4].

In summary, a person who is well-versed in reason, reality, rational economic theory, psychology, and history, and who understands the negative aspects of big government, cannot align with liberal or leftist ideologies because these ideologies are fundamentally at odds with the principles of Objectivism. They deny the primacy of existence, undermine individual rights, ignore historical lessons, and promote a moral code that sacrifices the individual to the collective. Such a person would naturally advocate for capitalism, individualism, and limited government as the only moral and practical foundations for a free and prosperous society.

Sources:

1 Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology by Ayn Rand

2 Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology by Ayn Rand expanded 2nd edition edited by Harry Binswanger and Leonard Peikoff containing never-before published philosophical material by Ayn rand

3 Ominous Parallels by Leonard Peikoff

4 The Objectivist by Ayn Rand

5 For the New Intellectual by Ayn Rand

6 Ayn Rand Lexicon by Harry Binswanger

In addition:

When a person is extremely knowledgeable in philosophy, rational economic theory, psychology, and history, and they have enough life experience to understand that big government is evil and should not be worshipped, they are likely to recognize the fundamental principles of individual liberty and free markets. Laissez-faire capitalism emphasizes minimal government intervention, allowing individuals to act in their self-interest within a framework of voluntary exchange. This aligns with the philosophy of reason and reality, which values objective reality and rational self-interest.

Liberal or leftist ideologies often advocate for greater government control and intervention in economic and social affairs, which can lead to inefficiencies, reduced individual freedoms, and a misallocation of resources. A person who understands rational economic theory will see that free markets are more efficient at allocating resources than central planning and bureaucratic management. They will also recognize that the incentives created by free markets drive innovation and economic growth, which ultimately benefit society as a whole.

Moreover, history has shown that large, centralized governments tend to become corrupt and oppressive, leading to negative consequences for individual freedom and prosperity. This understanding from historical examples reinforces the belief that big government is harmful. Therefore, someone with this extensive knowledge and life experience is likely to support policies that promote individual liberty and free markets, making it difficult for them to align with liberal or leftist ideologies that oppose these principles [1][3][6].

Sources:

1 Man, Economy, and State with Power and Market, Scholar's Edition, by Murray Rothbard

2 Capitalism by George Reisman

3 Human Action, Third Revised Edition by Ludwig Von Mises

4 The Birth of Plenty by William J. Bernstein

5 Economic Thought Before Adam Smith by Murry Rothbard

6 Marxism/socialism, a sociopathic philosophy, conceived in gross error and ignorance, culminating in economic chaos, enslavement, terror, and mass murder by George Reisman

Furthermore:

Individuals who possess extensive knowledge in philosophy, rational economic theory, psychology, and history, and who have enough life experience to recognize the detrimental effects of big government, often find it challenging to align with liberal or leftist ideologies for several reasons.

Firstly, rational economic theory emphasizes the importance of free markets and minimal government intervention. Free markets are seen as the most efficient way to allocate resources, driven by the forces of supply and demand. The inherent competition in free markets fosters innovation and economic growth, benefiting society at large. In contrast, liberal and leftist ideologies often support increased government intervention and regulation, which can lead to inefficiencies and stifle economic growth [1][3].

Secondly, from a philosophical standpoint, the principles of individual liberty and personal responsibility are paramount in laissez-faire capitalism. This perspective values objective reality and rational self-interest, which are often compromised under large government systems that impose collective goals and redistribute wealth. The imposition of such collective goals can undermine individual freedoms and the ability to act based on one's rational self-interest [1][6].

Moreover, psychological insights reveal that humans are motivated by personal incentives. Free market systems align with this understanding by allowing individuals to reap the benefits of their efforts and innovations. On the other hand, systems that rely heavily on government intervention tend to diminish personal incentives, leading to reduced productivity and motivation [3].

Historical evidence also plays a critical role. History has demonstrated that large, centralized governments tend to become corrupt and oppressive. Examples of such outcomes can be seen in various regimes where increased government control has led to economic decline and loss of personal freedoms. This historical perspective reinforces the belief that big government is harmful and should not be worshipped [6].

In conclusion, the alignment with free market principles and skepticism of big government is a logical outcome for individuals deeply versed in these areas of knowledge. Their understanding of economic efficiency, individual liberty, human motivation, and historical precedents makes it difficult for them to support liberal or leftist ideologies that advocate for larger government roles in society [1][3][6].

Sources:

1 Man, Economy, and State with Power and Market, Scholar's Edition, by Murray Rothbard

2 Capitalism by George Reisman

3 Economic Thought Before Adam Smith by Murry Rothbard

4 The Birth of Plenty by William J. Bernstein

5 Human Action, Third Revised Edition by Ludwig Von Mises

6 A Theory of Socialism and Capitalism by Hans-Hermann Hoppe

Jesus was pro-capitalist (short summary version)

 The article "Jesus Supported and Sanctioned Pro-capitalist Economics" argues that Jesus endorsed capitalist principles through his teachings and parables. Here's a summary of the key points:

Jesus' Omniscience and Economic Insights:

Jesus, being omniscient, understood the best economic system for humanity. He explicitly supported a pro-capitalist economic framework and rejected anti-capitalist ideologies like Marxism, socialism, communism, and fascism [1].

Biblical References Supporting Capitalism:

Jesus' teachings, as depicted in various parables and sermons, align with capitalist principles. For example:

Not Hoarding: Jesus taught against hoarding, which is non-productive and counter to capitalist values (Matthew 6:19-24) [1].

Not Worrying About Consumption: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus advised not to worry about consumption, emphasizing spiritual over material pursuits (Matthew 6:25-34) [1].

Opposition to Taxes: Jesus demonstrated opposition to oppressive taxation, recognizing it as detrimental to productivity and economic growth (Matthew 17:24-27) [1].

Parables on Stewardship and Investment: Parables like that of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) highlight the positive aspects of investment and productive use of resources, which are core tenets of capitalism [1].

Productionism vs. Consumptionism:

The article contrasts productionism, which emphasizes increasing wealth through production (a capitalist view), with consumptionism, which prioritizes consumption and can deplete wealth. Capitalism, by focusing on production, ensures a continuous increase in wealth, leading to a higher quality of life and more leisure time for spiritual pursuits [1].

Rejection of Anti-Capitalist Ideologies:

Socialism: Jesus did not endorse government ownership of property or centralized economic planning, recognizing the inefficiencies and economic chaos these cause [1].

Marxism: Jesus rejected the Marxist view of class struggle and the overthrow of the bourgeoisie, as well as the concept of a classless utopia [1].

Communism: Jesus understood that a utopian society without scarcity was unattainable due to human fallibility [1].

Fascism: Jesus opposed the collectivist and authoritarian nature of fascism, supporting individualism instead [1].

Capitalism and Natural Rights:

Capitalism is portrayed as the system that best preserves and protects God-given natural rights by prohibiting the initiation of force, thus providing a safe and secure environment where individuals can focus on spiritual growth [1].

In essence, the article posits that Jesus' teachings and parables align closely with the principles of capitalism and stand in opposition to socialist, communist, fascist, and Marxist ideologies [1].

Sources:

1 Capitalism by George Reisman

2 Man, Economy, and State with Power and Market, Scholar's Edition, by Murray Rothbard

3 Human Action, Third Revised Edition by Ludwig Von Mises

4 Economic Thought Before Adam Smith by Murry Rothbard

5 The Birth of Plenty by William J. Bernstein

6 A Theory of Socialism and Capitalism by Hans-Hermann Hoppe

In addition:

Support for Productive Use of Resources:

Jesus' parables often emphasize the importance of using resources wisely and productively, which is a core principle of capitalism. For example, the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) illustrates the virtue of investing and multiplying resources rather than hoarding or wasting them. This parable highlights the value of individual initiative and responsibility in creating wealth, which aligns with capitalist ideals [1].

Opposition to Hoarding and Unproductive Behavior:

Jesus taught against hoarding wealth in a non-productive manner. In Matthew 6:19-24, He advises against storing up treasures on earth, which can be interpreted as a critique of non-productive wealth accumulation. This aligns with the capitalist emphasis on reinvestment and the productive use of capital to generate economic growth [1].

Critique of Excessive Taxation:

Jesus' actions in Matthew 17:24-27, where He miraculously provides for the temple tax, can be seen as a subtle critique of excessive taxation. High taxes can stifle economic productivity and innovation, which are essential for a thriving capitalist economy. By opposing oppressive taxation, Jesus' teachings align with the capitalist preference for lower taxes and minimal government intervention in economic affairs [1].

Promotion of Individual Responsibility:

Many of Jesus' teachings focus on personal responsibility and ethical behavior. Capitalism, as an economic system, relies on the idea that individuals are responsible for their own economic decisions and bear the consequences of their actions. This principle is evident in Jesus' teachings, where He encourages individuals to take responsibility for their moral and economic choices [1].

Rejection of Collectivist Ideologies:

Jesus did not endorse collectivist economic systems like socialism, communism, or fascism. These systems often involve centralized control and the redistribution of wealth, which can undermine individual initiative and economic freedom. Jesus' teachings emphasize the importance of individual morality and personal relationship with God, rather than state-imposed economic equality [1].

Critique of Utopian Ideals:

Jesus understood the limitations of human nature and the impracticality of utopian ideals. Marxist and communist ideologies often promote the idea of a classless society without scarcity, but Jesus recognized that such a utopia is unattainable due to human fallibility. His teachings focus on spiritual growth and ethical behavior within the realities of the human condition, rather than striving for an unrealistic economic utopia [1].

In summary, Jesus' teachings support the principles of capitalism by promoting productive use of resources, individual responsibility, and opposition to oppressive taxation. At the same time, His teachings reject the collectivist and utopian ideals of socialist, communist, fascist, and Marxist ideologies [1].

Sources:

1 Capitalism by George Reisman

2 Economic Thought Before Adam Smith by Murry Rothbard

3 Man, Economy, and State with Power and Market, Scholar's Edition, by Murray Rothbard

4 Classical Economics by Murry Rothbard

5 The Birth of Plenty by William J. Bernstein

6 A Theory of Socialism and Capitalism by Hans-Hermann Hoppe