Article by Paul Johnson - Pursuing Success Is Not Enough

Paul Johnson recently wrote in Forbes the following:

"Of course, it is desirable, to my mind, that all business activities be rooted in Judeo-Christian teaching, both theoretical and practical, or conform to a morally defensible framework of principles. We should not pursue wealth, fame and success for their own sake. If we want a chance at happiness as well, our vision must be placed much higher."

Mr. Johnson makes some interesting points, but I think that he may be blinded by his unquestioning and non-objective "faith" in the "religion of love".

Forgive me for writing that I think that Paul Johnson has built a house out of glass and has decided to move into it...

Here's some great examples of Christian business principles from the not-too-distant past:

1. Pointing a gun to Indian farmers' heads and making them grow opium for pennies. Then selling this opium to the Chinese, and then going to war with them when the Chinese Emperor states that he disagrees with the British regarding the 20% addiction rate of the Chinese population!

2. The African slave trade which was used to build many Christian churches--free labor means christians get to keep 100% of the profits!

3. Again, wiping out the Aztecs and stealing their gold, raping their women and children, and then wiping them out like vermin.

4. Giving smallpox blankets to Native Americans for free!

5. Not allowing catholic priests to marry because their children would inherit church property( again, guarding the church's vast wealth). Then when the sexual abuse suits hit, engage in massive frauds and cover-ups. This is a good business principle.



On the basis of profit alone, I would have to agree with Paul Johnson that Christian business principles are very effective. The evidence reveals that there has been no better no more profitable business enterprise than the spread of Christianity and especially the use of Christianity to mask the true intentions of the aggressors. As per the "moral superiority" of these principles, I would have to disagree. Machiavelli said it best when he wrote that there can be no greater and effective stratagem than to mask ruthlessness with religion and piety.

What do you think?