We live in an age of greed. Economic good times and the self-immolation of socialist alternatives have left capitalism unrivaled in popular minds as a way of lifea prized set of values and expectations. However, capitalism is not without its downside or its victims. Basic human servicesand even religionhave become commodities. Corporations reorganize for short-term gain at the expense of employeesand of their own long-term viability. Increasingly, people see themselves not as citizens but as consumers. First World countries, 15 percent of the globe, account for 86 percent of private consumption. In this important book, Childs probes this disturbing development in its economic and cultural dimensions, gauging contemporary ways in light of Christian ethical principles and investigating a wide range of particular sectors and problems.

This is an accessible, clear discussion of a complex topic accompanied by thoughtful questions for further group discussion.