1Dime Radio Christianity and Socialism (Ft. Michael Burns)
Aug 5, 2025
In a thought-provoking discussion, philosophy professor Michael Burns, a former “Wisecrack” host, explores the intersection of Christianity and socialism. He shares his personal journey from Catholicism to socialist ideals, highlighting the evolving role of faith in political discourse. The conversation touches on Pope Leo XIV's progressive approach, the potential for Christian socialism, and the nuances of Christian atheism. Michael critiques capitalist narratives, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of socialism that aligns with moral truths and social justice.
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Christian Roots to Socialism
- Michael Burns links his Catholic roots to his embrace of socialism through liberation theology and social justice emphasis.
- His intellectual journey blends Christian community practices with Marxist political critique.
Religion as Community Over Belief
- Michael Burns never had a radical atheist phase because he valued religion as communal practice more than divine belief.
- He finds new atheism intellectually hubristic and prefers nuanced engagements like Slavoj Zizek's Christian atheism.
Evangelicals Demand Belief, Catholics Tradition
- Evangelical Christianity's emphasis on belief creates rigid divisions unlike Catholicism's focus on tradition.
- This rigidity makes evangelicalism politically aligned and less accommodating to leftist politics.
