This lecture will give an introduction to a “third-way” economic theory known as distributism, offering a look at its sources, its rise, and the thought of such 20th-century proponents as G. K. Chesterton, Hilaire Belloc, and their heirs. It will then offer a critique of the theory, noting both its positive aspects as well as its defects. The lecture will conclude with a look at some more recent proponents of the theory who have honed it in light of critiques.
Recommended Reading
David Deavel, “What’s Right With Distributism?” and “What’s Wrong With Distributism?” Intercollegiate Review (Summer 2013, digital), available at https://home.isi.org/node/67943 and https://home.isi.org/whats-wrong-distributism
John C Medaille, Towards a Truly Free Market: A Distributist Perspective on the Role of Government, Taxes, Health Care, Deficits, and More (2010) • Michael Novak, “Saving Distributism”, The Chesterton Review 10 (1):13-34, (1984)
Course Years:
Instructor
David Deavel, Ph.D.
