The Idolatry of Money and Human Rights
A Theological Critique of the New Myth of Capitalism
Will be published approx. on 11. June 2026
192 pages
978-0-567-72687-2 (ISBN)
Description
A powerful theological critique of neoliberalism and contemporary capitalism and its corrosive effects on human dignity and social justice. Writing from Latin America's liberationist tradition and his position as a theologian in Brazil, Sung argues that neoliberal economics has not only created unprecedented inequality, but also birthed a new cultural myth: that the market is sacred. Drawing on biblical faith, Catholic social teaching, and real-world examples from around the globe, and providing lucid descriptions of contributions from key economists and liberation theologians, he challenges the modern separation between faith and economics, calling instead for a renewed commitment to human rights and the Church's option for the poor. Sung's central claim is provocative and urgent: the worship of money in today's world is a form of idolatry that contradicts both the gospel and reason. The Church must reject neutrality, he writes, and speak prophetically on behalf of the excluded. Originally published in Portuguese, this English translation brings to a wider audience a passionate, accessible, and intellectually rich argument that faith and reason demand action in the face of systemic injustice.
More details
Series
Language
English
Place of publication
London
United Kingdom
Publishing group
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Target group
College/higher education
File size
77,37 MB
ISBN-13
978-0-567-72687-2 (9780567726872)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
Jung Mo Sung
The Idolatry of Money and Human Rights
A Theological Critique of the New Myth of Capitalism
Book
approx. 07/2026
T.& T.Clark Ltd
€31.50
Not yet published
Person
Jung Mo Sung is Professor of Religious Studies at the Methodist University of São Paulo, Brazil. A prominent voice in Latin American liberation theology, he is the author of numerous books on faith, justice, and economics. Born in South Korea and raised in Brazil, Sung brings a unique intercultural perspective to questions of global inequality and Christian responsibility. His work bridges theological reflection with the urgent demands of social and economic transformation.
Content
Introduction
1. Theology and Economic Myths
2. F.A. Hayek and The Original Sin
3. The "Sacred" Market and the Inversion of Ethics
4. Theology and the Criticism of Idolatry
5. Social Classes and Conflict of Interests
6. A New Mythical Narrative, Utopia, and Theology
1. Theology and Economic Myths
2. F.A. Hayek and The Original Sin
3. The "Sacred" Market and the Inversion of Ethics
4. Theology and the Criticism of Idolatry
5. Social Classes and Conflict of Interests
6. A New Mythical Narrative, Utopia, and Theology
