Book Review: Capitalism and Progress

Authored by Professor of Economic Theory at the Free University of Amsterdam Bob Goudzwaard, Capitalism and Progress provides a penetrating analysis into one of the foremost economic systems of the Western world. Goudzwaard's basic premise, which is the West's faith in progress - thus blinding its civilization to more fundamental human limitations - is both a reminder and rebuke to our modern, technocratic society which attempts to master nature, but in the process of doing so, have led to a razing of values, norms and institutions that provide its existence with meaning.

I bought this book about three weeks ago - half-expecting myself not to finish the book (as with the case with many other books), but the breadth, complexity and his ability to weave multiple threads together into a poignant argument, was simply compelling. More helpfully, Goudzwaard writes simply and honestly thus ensuring the book reads, not like a piece of academic work, but with the heart of a writer whose thoughts form the bedrock of his words.

I would recommend this book to all - regardless of their faiths - who are becoming increasingly disillusioned with the economic patterns of modern society, and are in the search for answers, and "substantial healing" in economic life.