Market and faith. Discussion between Orthodox Economics and Liberation Theology. Readings on Franz Hinkelammert

Abstract

In the theoretical production of Franz Hinkelammert is identified a central point the discussion between Orthodox Economics and Liberation Theology: idolatry. In idolatry, idols are a product of the dominating imagination of the individual, idols that are converted in the basis for deciding the validity of everything else. Idols require worship, and by being worshiped become gods. The market has become precisely that in monetarist neoliberalism. Todays faith is the obedience the laws of the market, which is the functional law of society. However, this law, in its principles, has the worst way to destroy the human being: transforming him into a selfish, possessive and calculating individual. The market is thus a destructive god. Hinkelammert argues that human freedom comes from the relativization of this law (and of any other law) in function of life. Faith is to recognize that law is not valid if it leads to destruction. Faith is the compromise with human life and the disagreement with human destruction.