Etica ed economia. Il contributo de «La Civiltà Cattolica» nel secondo dopoguerra (Ethics and economics. The contribution of «La Civiltà Cattolica» in the second post-war period

This essay examines the approach of «La Civiltà Cattolica» towards the economic theories of the Marxian, neoliberal and Keynesian tradition, during the second post-war period. The Jesuits’ review adopts the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church as its philosophical reference and tries to specify its teachings. During the second post-war period the Social Doctrine passes through a signi?cant evolution, concerning both doctrinal and methodological factors. From an epistemological point of view, it begins to be more apparent that the Social Doctrine belongs to a moral-theological domain. As a consequence, the review recognizes the autonomy of the theoretical components of economics and becomes more careful in suggesting speci?c, practical measures. On the other hand, the substantial continuity of the Social Doctrine’s fundamental principles guarantees the review’s coherent approach towards economic theories. The result is a constant warning to the necessity of making economics subordinate to ethics, the centrality of human person and the concept of Common Good.