Andrew M. McGinnis, assistant director of research at the CRCD and managing editor of the Journal of Religion, Culture & Democracy, dives into early modern economics and ethics. He sheds light on the School of Salamanca's contributions and the revival of natural law in Protestant thought. McGinnis discusses how print culture during the Reformation shaped ideas and emphasizes the moral complexity of commerce. The conversation also explores exciting technological advancements that help uncover lost manuscripts, inviting curiosity about historical treasures.
Historical resourcement highlights the importance of revisiting early modern texts to enrich current discussions in economics, ethics, and law.
The challenges of translating early modern works underline the necessity for accessible scholarship to promote understanding of natural law's relevance today.
Deep dives
The Importance of Historical Resourcement
Historical resourcement emphasizes the necessity of revisiting early modern sources to enrich contemporary discussions in economics, ethics, and law. It is essential to recognize that many ideas in these fields were developed by thinkers in the late medieval and early modern periods, whose contributions have often been overlooked. By examining these foundational texts, scholars can gain insights that challenge the notion of chronological snobbery, where the current generation assumes that modern ideas are inherently superior. This historical perspective not only provides context for today's debates but also highlights the continuity of thought across time.
Challenges in Translating Scholarly Works
One of the significant challenges in historical scholarship is the translation and accessibility of early modern texts. Many original works are in Latin or other languages that require skilled scholars for proper translation, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming. With the recent series focused on full translations, it has become crucial to identify shorter, more digestible texts that still offer valuable insights. The arduous task of finding contributors who can commit the necessary time to translate these important works amplifies the significance of the series in making this knowledge available to a broader audience.
Revisiting Natural Law in Protestant Thought
Recent scholarship has sparked renewed interest in natural law within Protestant circles, challenging misconceptions that Protestantism neglects this tradition. Notably, figures from the Reformation engaged deeply with natural law, producing treatises that rectified earlier claims of disinterest in the subject. Scholars have explored how these historical writings can inform contemporary debates surrounding ethics and moral philosophy, illustrating a rich tradition that contradicts modern perceptions. This exploration serves to strengthen theological discourse, showing that historical insights can significantly contribute to present-day discussions on natural law.
Engagement with Classical Authorities
The use of classical sources by early modern scholars reveals a robust connection between contemporary theological thought and the ancient philosophical tradition. Many figures from the Reformation incorporated ideas from classical authors, showcasing the importance of this academic engagement in shaping their arguments. This interplay serves as a reminder of the value of cultural and intellectual heritage, encouraging modern scholars to build a comprehensive understanding of their disciplines. By acknowledging and respecting this lineage, contemporary thinkers can draw inspiration from the past while navigating the complexities of current debates.
In this episode, Dan Hugger speaks with Andrew M. McGinnis, assistant director of research at the CRCD and managing editor of the Journal of Religion, Culture & Democracy, about the Acton Institute’s recently completed Sources in Early Modern Economics, Ethics, and Law (Second Series). What is historical ressourcement, and why does it matter? What are the challenges scholars face when attempting such work? How can historical scholarship enrich the Church? The world?