The Catholic Ethic in American Society: An Exploration of Values

When John E. Tropman first published his scholarly paper "The Catholic Ethic" in the journal Social Thought, it was awarded the prestigious Msgr. O'Grady Prize. Now, Tropman has expanded his groundbreaking work in his book, The Catholic Ethic in American Society.Based on years of scholarly research, this book reveals a Catholic Ethic that parallels the more well-known Protestant Ethic. John E. Tropman presents an insightful analysis of the deeply ingrained attitudes Americans have about money and work, and their view of people who have neither. Tropman offers a fresh perspective of the Protestant Ethic by contrasting it with the newly identified Catholic charity ethic. He outlines the key features that distinguish the Catholic Ethic from its Protestant counterpart including how the two ethics value money and work, family and community, and the individual. The Protestant Ethic_which was first articulated by sociologist Max Weber_is rooted in the values of work, wealth, and achievement while the Catholic Ethic is firmly based on long standing traditions and beliefs of sharing. Given the fundamental differences of the two ethics, the Catholic Ethic has a stronger value base for providing assistance to others, especially the poor and the disadvantaged. With the Protestant Ethic's emphasis on achievement and self-reliance, charitable acts become fraught with concern, worry, and hesitancy. Distinguishing between the poor who are worthy and those who are deemed unworthy becomes an essential part of the helping activity. The Catholic Ethic and American Society is a valuable work for sociologists, political scientists, social activists, religion scholars and students, and fundraisers of Catholic charitable organizations.Tropman, John E. is the author of 'The Catholic Ethic in American Society: An Exploration of Values' with ISBN 9780787901233 and ISBN 0787901237.