Do classical liberals ‘pave the way for white nationalists’? | Rev. Robert Sirico responds to Marco Rubio's 'common good capitalism'
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Do classical liberals ‘pave the way for white nationalists’?
By Rev. Ben Johnson • December 4, 2019
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Matthew Schmitz, a senior editor at First Things and self-described “socialist Roman Catholic,” recently wrote an article titled “How classical liberals paved the way for white nationalists” in the Catholic Herald. Schmitz has little use for “classical liberalism,” a philosophy that upholds the inalienable rights of humanity and limits the role of the state. How, then, does he link limited government to a totalitarian ideology? Schmitz argues that both small-government conservatives and white nationalists have “one point of absolute agreement: the value of free speech.” He then references Turning Point USA leader Charlie Kirk's statement that he would defeat Alt-Right leader Nick Fuentes through “dialogue.” The sandcastle of Schmitz’s argument crumbles upon the lightest touch of the wind. Those of us who value expression over repression do so because the “marketplace of ideas” (just like real markets) allow people to make comparisons. Demonstrating the superiority of better ideas to poisonous ones such as white nationalism is possible only if both are allowed to make their best case. Light distinguishes itself in contrast with the darkness. Free speech is merely an accelerant for thought. If Schmitz bans one, he inhibits the other.
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Acton Line podcast: Rev. Robert Sirico responds to Marco Rubio's 'common good capitalism'
December 4, 2019
Senator Marco Rubio gesticulates while giving a speech in Las Vegas Nevada. ([link removed] )
Sen. Marco Rubio's recent proposals for 'common good capitalism' have sparked criticism and praise across the board. Rubio draws heavily from Catholic Social Teaching in his defense of common good capitalism, describing an economy for the common good characterized by dignified work and stability for working class families. On November 5, Rubio addressed students at the Catholic University of America, saying “[c]ommon good capitalism is about a vibrant and growing free market, but it is also about harnessing and channeling that growth for the benefit of our country, our people and our society at large." How does Rubio propose that we harness this growth and should Catholic Social Teaching be used as a guidebook for policy makers? Acton's co-founder and president Rev. Robert Sirico explains.
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Senator Marco Rubio touched off a debate about the values of capitalism with his remarks on “common-good capitalism” on November 5 at the Catholic University of America. Acton Institute Director of Research Samuel Gregg offers his assessment, where he traces Rubio’s thought to one of the most influential political philosophies in postwar Western European history.
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