New Books in Christian Studies
Patrick Riordan, "Human Dignity and Liberal Politics: Catholic Possibilities for the Common Good" (Georgetown UP, 2023)
Feb 20, 2025
Patrick Riordan, a Senior Fellow in Political Philosophy and Catholic Social Thought at Campion Hall, Oxford, explores the intricate dance between Catholic teachings and liberal politics. He delves into how the common good enriches human dignity and promotes just societies, emphasizing that liberalism can coexist harmoniously with Catholic social thought. Riordan challenges the dichotomy between faith and political engagement, urging for collaboration across diverse worldviews to foster human rights and democracy. His insights pave the way for a richer dialogue on the common good.
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast emphasizes the compatibility between liberal political philosophy and Catholic Social Teaching, advocating for a collaborative dialogue centered on the common good.
- It highlights the significance of intertwining ecological and social justice issues, as articulated in Pope Francis' Laudato Si, to foster a more humane economy.
Deep dives
Integration of Catholic Thought and Liberal Politics
The exploration of the interplay between Catholic social thought and liberal political philosophy emphasizes the necessity of integrating these two fields. Acknowledging that liberal political literature often neglects the concept of the common good, the discussion points out the need for Catholic perspectives to be communicated effectively within political discourse. This challenges the dichotomy between individualism and community-centered ideologies, arguing that both can coexist in a meaningful framework. The recognition of the inherent dignity of individuals allows for collaboration between Catholic teachings and liberal politics for the common good.
