Complicating Private Property | Prof. Joseph Capizzi
Apr 4, 2020
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Prof. Joseph Capizzi explores the church's stance on private property, delving into the theological concept of universal destination of goods. The discussion covers ethical responsibility, property rights in law, needs vs. wants, societal regulations, wealth distribution, human bodies as property, and moral dimensions of ownership.
Private property rights are complex, balancing individual needs with societal obligations.
Ethical dilemmas arise in property rights, including responsibilities in times of need.
Property rights intersect with wealth distribution, justice, historical context, and ethical considerations.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Private Property
Private property is explored in terms of religious teachings, notably the church's views and the Thomistic perspective. Key discussions involve the rights to private property versus the universal allocation of goods for the common good.
Interweaving Theological and Legal Concepts
The podcast delves into the theological underpinnings of ownership, referencing Thomas Aquinas' work on natural dominion and property ownership rights. It also discusses the application of human reason in determining property rights.
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Property Rights
The conversation extends to diverse cultural interpretations of property rights, acknowledging the contextual differences in societal views on ownership and possession, revealing varying approaches to property rights based on different social norms and values.
Navigating Property Rights and Ethical Dilemmas
Ethical dilemmas related to property rights are explored, such as the responsibilities of individuals in situations of need and the moral considerations surrounding property theft in dire circumstances, showcasing the complexity of balancing individual needs with societal laws and moral obligations.
Property Rights and Justice in Wealth Distribution
The podcast explores the concept of property rights and justice in wealth distribution. It discusses how the ownership of property, including individuals' bodies, is complex and not absolute. It delves into the idea of superabundance, billionaires' wealth, and the implications for distributive justice. The discussion highlights the moral and ethical considerations related to wealth redistribution, the destabilizing effects of inequality, and the interconnectedness between property ownership, societal stability, and political membership.
Ownership, Property Titles, and Historical Context
Another key point addressed in the podcast is the notion of ownership, property titles, and historical context. It examines the complex history of property ownership, including the issue of just titles, as seen in conflicts between Native American tribes and European settlers. The conversation extends to discussions on child ownership, marital relations, and security, illustrating how property rights are deeply intertwined with various social and moral dilemmas. Furthermore, the podcast draws parallels between property claims, slavery, abortion rights, and the concept of individuals' autonomy over their bodies in ethical and societal contexts.
This lecture was given at the University of South Carolina on February 20, 2020.
For more events and info please visit thomisticinstitute.org/events-1.
Joseph E. Capizzi is Ordinary Professor of Moral Theology at the Catholic University of America. He teaches in the areas of social and political theology, with special interests in issues in peace and war, citizenship, political authority, and Augustinian theology. He has written, lectured, and published widely on just war theory, bioethics, the history of moral theology, and political liberalism.
Dr. Capizzi is the Executive Director of the Institute for Human Ecology at Catholic University. He received his B.A. from the University of Virginia, his Masters in Theological Studies from Emory University, and his M.A. and Ph.D. in Theology from the University of Notre Dame. He lives in Maryland with his wife and six children.
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