Watch: Catholic social thought in an uncertain future

Can human dignity survive capitalism? A seminary priest and faculty member explains


Briefly:

  • An enduring moral framework in a fragmented world: Catholic social thought offers a consistent ethical foundation rooted in human dignity, solidarity and the common good. These principles speak powerfully amid today’s polarization, inequality, and ecological crises.
  • Evolving with contemporary challenges: From Rerum Novarum to Laudato Si’ and Fratelli Tutti, Catholic social teaching has evolved to engage modern issues like climate change, digital ethics, and globalization, showing its adaptability and prophetic voice in new contexts.
  • A global ethic for an uncertain future: In an era marked by rapid change and uncertainty, Catholic social thought serves as a compass for building more just, compassionate, and sustainable societies. These societies ultimately unite spiritual insight with practical action across cultures and ideologies.

Msgr. Martin Schlag, the Alan W. Moss Endowed Chair for Catholic Social Thought and co-director of the Terrence J. Murphy Institute at the University of St. Thomas, Schlag brings a rich and practical perspective on the intersection of theology, law and business.

In this episode, Msgr. Schlag discusses how and why Catholic social thought is more relevant than ever, how it’s evolved and what it means for the world even amidst an uncertain future.

Eager to hear more from Msgr. Schlag? Join us on Monday, September 29 at 6:30 p.m. for the Archbishop John Ireland Lecture. Register now.