Capitalism, or... What Derivatives Would Jesus Buy?

We went out last night to see Michael Moore's Capitalism: A Love Story. I'll say it's a must-see and leave it at that. (Except to add that the man is another of those modern-day prophets, and the fact that so many people don't like him simply helps prove the point.)

The movie got me thinking again about some things that I have said here before, to little or no reaction. So, being the stubborn son of a gun that I am, I thought I'd say them again and see if I can provoke anyone into responding.

Here's something I said some time ago that bears repeating:

Capitalism is based on a system of enlightened self-interest

The Gospel of Jesus is based on a system of enlightened other-interest

As such, they are diametrically opposed, and more than likely incompatible.

Any comments on that rather bold statement? If you still support the idea that capitalism is God's preferred economic system I'd like to hear from you. But even if you don't, how about the idea that they are possibly incompatible? Anyone?

The problem, as I see it, is this: The concept of enlightened self-interest is a simple one. If I take care of my business first, or if I look to my own economic interests first, then I will be in a better position to help others. It sounds reasonable... maybe. But we live in a fallen world. And in a fallen world it is a slippery slope leading from "enlightened self-interest" to "greed". It's as simple as that. That is why Jesus always points us to the "other". If we focus on ourselves, even with the best of intentions, the temptation is too great, and the slope too slippery.

On Sunday I had the chance to share with friends in Port Moody my thoughts on the question "Is Christianity Too Political?" We talked about ideology, and defined it as “a set of aims and ideas that directs one's goals, expectations, and actions.” In that sense, we all live according to some ideology, but in this case I meant the more nefarious (and blasphemous) practice of co-opting religious imagery or meaning to further a societal, cultural, economic, or political goal. I used another line that I posted here some time ago. I'll adapt it slightly here for our current consideration:

Does our faith inform our politics ideology, or does our politics ideology inform our faith?

Hopefully the meaning is obvious. How do we prioritize faith, ideology, or politics? I think our views on capitalism fit nicely here. (On Sunday I suggested that if your Jesus completely adheres to the platform of your political party, I would respectfully suggest that you fit into the latter half of the above statement. I went on to propose that as Followers of Jesus we should not be aligned with any particular political party on any kind of permanent basis, but I'll leave that aside for now.)

Capitalism and Jesus. Your thoughts please.