(Much of this article is adapted from the chapter “Christianity, Paganism, and Capitalism” in my book, Modern Paganism.)

The candidacy of Zohran Mamdani, a self-described ‘Democratic Socialist’, has again brought the subject of socialism as a viable economic alternative, to the forefront. As a result of an AI answer to the question, “Who is socialism most popular with in the United States?”, we read,

In the United States, socialism is most popular with Democrats and younger generations, particularly those identifying as Millennials and Gen Z

The fact that Mamdani could become the next major of NYC, despite it being seen as the center of capitalism, tells us that many feel capitalism is unfair, at least in that city.

This article is not intended to diagnose why these young adults are drawn to what most people consider a failed economic system. Our publication deals with the Christian worldview and how it applies to the issues of our life, including our economic life. So… which model aligns more closely to the scriptures and the teaching of Christianity that follow – socialism or capitalism?

Many have been taught it is socialism. Capitalism is based on greed they say, socialism is compassionate. Jesus cared for the poor. In the early part of the book of Acts (chapter 2), we read in several places they ‘had all things common’, which is what socialism, or communism teaches. No private property; the state provides for all.

Those who teach that the scripture supports capitalism over socialism point out that Acts 2 was not the norm for the early church. In Acts 2 we read of the supernatural birth of the church due to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the inspired preaching of Peter, with thousands becoming believers in a day. Jews from many nations were gathered there for the annual Feast of Pentecost. There were no churches for these new believers to return home to, and they needed to be taught. The church had to rally to accommodate this large influx of people, so outstanding generosity was required. This was a situation unique in time and place – Jerusalem at the birth of the Church. It is much like what we’ve seen with the fairly recent Syrian refugee crisis, except it all happened in one day. Later in the book of Acts, in other cities, we don’t see this ‘all things common’ model happening. In fact, the scriptures urge generosity with material goods, meaning you have to own private property. Interestingly, when socialism takes over, private generosity usually goes out the door. You only see it in capitalism birthed out of a Judeo-Christian worldview. Socialists are only generous with other people’s money.

Capitalism per se is not taught in scripture, but the principles that support it are. The scriptures teach and promise rewards for those who work hard, as well as for those who are generous, thus contradicting the idea that it is wrong to aspire to financial success. The Christian view of work is that it is part of God’s plan, to meet the needs of others through products and services, as well as for personal self-development. That is why so many times those who are not ‘gainfully employed’ find themselves empty and lacking purpose, even if their financial needs are met. Work is part of God’s plan for self development and to overcome undesirable habits, such as laziness or dishonesty. Lasting success is based on initiative, resolve, dependability, honesty, diligence, and other virtues. These were the principles impressed upon the people by the Puritan leaders and writers in our founding era. You see it in the writings of Benjamin Franklin, though not a Puritan, an heir like the rest of us to their value system. Thus, the famous ‘Christian (or Protestant as it’s often called) work ethic’. This priority of work and its rewards has pervaded our modern mindset, including those professing no Christian faith. We are all benefitting from the prosperity created by Christianity’s effect on capitalism.

The only way you can achieve equal outcomes is when everyone is poor

The Christian ethic of sharing or giving indicates that it should be done voluntarily, which is not possible in the government coercion required in socialism. The command to not steal implies private ownership of property. The prohibition against covetousness directly contradicts socialism or communism, which seems to be fueled by envy toward others who are better off financially. We hear about economic disparity, as if that was the issue. If my needs are met, it doesn’t matter how many billionaires there are. Making them poorer will not help my situation. Those who promote socialism often talk about ‘equity’, which is different than equality. Equality means equal opportunity. Equity means equal outcomes. The only way you can achieve equal outcomes is when everyone is poor, which is what happens in places like Cuba and Venezuela.