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The Pelagian Controversy: An Economic Analysis

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  • John H. Beck

Abstract

. In recent years economic theory has been used to analyze the introduction of new religious doctrines as innovations that further the objectives of religious organizations and their leaders. The present study analyzes the decision of church authorities in the early fifth century to reject the doctrine advanced by Pelagius in favor of the position taken by Augustine. Accounts of the controversy reveal two self‐interested motives for the church hierarchy to reject the Pelagian doctrine: (1) the Pelagian view would have undermined the authority of the church hierarchy; and (2) by making greater demands for moral conduct, it would have raised the “cost” of being a Christian and thereby discouraged growth in church membership, particularly among the Roman upper class.

Suggested Citation

  • John H. Beck, 2007. "The Pelagian Controversy: An Economic Analysis," American Journal of Economics and Sociology, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 66(4), pages 681-696, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ajecsc:v:66:y:2007:i:4:p:681-696
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1536-7150.2007.00535.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Laurence R. Iannaccone, 1998. "Introduction to the Economics of Religion," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 36(3), pages 1465-1495, September.
    2. Peter A. Zaleski & Charles E. Zech, 1992. "Determinants of Contributions to Religious Organizations," American Journal of Economics and Sociology, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 51(4), pages 459-472, October.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Vikas Kumar, 2012. "Cartels in the Kautiliya Arthasastra," Czech Economic Review, Charles University Prague, Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Economic Studies, vol. 6(1), pages 59-79, March.

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