Response by Ralph Loomis

Abstract

Geoffrey Brennan asserts that, concerning the “proper role of government in the economy … there is not, and cannot be, a single uniquely Christian view”. Elsewhere, he asserts that he is a “free market libertarian”, which is “entirely consistent with (his) Christian conviction”. Although there is not a “uniquely Christian view”, the biblical writers understand that a universal moral law does pertain to such matters as the proper role of government in the economy. Moreover, this universal moral law translates into the idea of integrity consisting in a differentiated unity - in contrast with the over differentiated individuation characteristic of Modern, Classical Liberalism, best referred to as the “libertarianism”, which Mr. Brennan espouses.