Christian Theology and Modern Political Economy: With Emphasis on the Political Thought of Thomas Aquinas

Document Type : Research

Authors

1 hD Candidate, Department of Political Science, Cha.C., Islamic Azad University, Chalus, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Cha.C., Islamic Azad University, Chalus, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Cha.C., Islamic Azad University, Chalus, Iran.

Abstract

The Enduring Influence of Natural Law on Modern Political Economy This study explores how the concept of natural law evolved over time, focusing on the transformative role of Thomas Aquinas’s ideas in shaping modern political economy. Aquinas blended traditional natural law with Roman legal traditions and Christian theology, creating a coherent framework that laid the groundwork for later theories of natural rights. His approach marked a shift from seeing natural law as purely divine or mystical toward understanding it as accessible through human reason, guided by divine principles. This intellectual shift moved away from the rigid medieval views and opened the door for new social and economic ideas.Building on this foundation, 17th-century thinkers like John Locke developed a liberal vision of natural rights, emphasizing life, liberty, and property. These ideas became central to classical economic thought and the rise of individualism. Adam Smith, often called the father of political economy, drew directly on natural law to explain market dynamics, famously describing the “invisible hand” that guides economic activity. Despite critiques from later utilitarians such as Jeremy Bentham, natural law theory experienced a revival in the 20th century, especially through the human rights movements that emerged after World War II.In sum, this paper highlights how natural law-particularly as reshaped by Aquinas—played a crucial role in transitioning Western legal and political thought from static medieval doctrines to dynamic, reason-based frameworks. This legacy deeply influenced the development of modern political economy and continues to resonate in contemporary discussions on law and rights.

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References

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International Political Economy Studies
Volume 8, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
September 2025
Pages 89-104

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History

  • Receive Date: 23 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 21 June 2025
  • Accept Date: 23 July 2025

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