Theologians in the fight against the crisis: Hoffmann calls for a change of course for the economy!

Theologians in the fight against the crisis: Hoffmann calls for a change of course for the economy!

The Protestant theologian Martin Hoffmann calls for a fundamental reversal in the global economic system. In his current work and his critical analysis of existing social and economic structures, he sees humanity in a crisis of survival that is exacerbated by violence, wars, migration and climate change. Hoffmann, who worked in Costa Rica until 2023 and was previously a pastor and rector of a seminary in Bavaria, emphasizes that the current economic system, which relies heavily on growth and the rationality of purpose-benefit calculation, is contributing to these crises.

The war in Ukraine in particular exacerbated the already existing problems. In a time of increasing political and social pressure, Hoffmann sees neoliberal capitalism as the central root of social divisions and increasing inequality. He therefore calls for a new political framework that orients the economy towards the common good and suggests the search for a third way that goes beyond the previous concepts of capitalism and socialism.

Common good as a guiding principle

The reorientation called for by Hoffmann is reflected in the idea of ​​the economy for the common good, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this October. The approach, developed by Christian Felber, sets four central criteria for companies: human dignity, solidarity and justice, ecological sustainability, and transparency and co-decision. Companies should be evaluated according to these aspects in order to create a balance sheet for the common good. Hoffmann highlights examples such as the outdoor outfitter Vaude and various charitable organizations that are already guided by these values. He also reports on the privatizations in Latin America, which have led to significant social problems.

The common good economy criticizes the fact that the current economic system contradicts the basic values ​​of a democratic society and often puts financial profit above the well-being of the general public. This incorrect prioritization leads to significant environmental pollution and psychological stress, for which society ultimately bears the costs. Against this background, the common good economy aims to create incentives for ethical economic action and does not represent a complete model, but rather a concept that should continuously develop. This also includes exchange with other sustainable economic approaches such as the donut economy.

Political support and public welfare balance

Hoffmann calls for explicit political measures to promote companies oriented towards the common good, including tax discounts and preferential loans, in order to anchor the principles of the common good economy in reality. Critics of the approach point out that the common good balance is based on voluntariness and that profound changes in the economic system are required. In Germany, the concept has already been practiced in many municipalities, with some being recognized as certified communities for the common good.

In addition, there are now eight such communities in Germany, including Kirchanschöring, which are actively committed to the common good. These initiatives range from the introduction of citizen buses to investments in green spaces. Nevertheless, the challenge of reconciling property rights and entrepreneurial freedom with the goals of the common good economy remains a controversial issue. The Austrian Chamber of Commerce has expressed concerns in this context and warns against excessive bureaucratic effort.

In summary, Hoffmann and the proponents of the common good economy are calling for a rethinking of the economy that aims at long-term and integrative solutions in order to leave future generations with livable conditions. Historical critical voices, such as those of Martin Luther, underline that warnings about the dangers of capitalism are not a new phenomenon. Hoffmann appeals to theologians and society as a whole to get actively involved in economic issues and to promote models that serve life.