Augustine and the Economy of Sacrifice : Ancient and Modern Perspectives

Augustine's theory of the church shows how contemporary economic culture might translate losses into opportunities for collective acknowledgment. This book expands Augustinian thought to argue that sacrifices in business exchange can serve the common good. It engages with Augustinian studies, philosophy of exchange, and economic ethics.

Business is generally viewed as a means to generate personal or corporate wealth, but business transactions can also sacrificially serve the common good. In conversation with contemporary social theorists, Joshua S. Nunziato in this book critically evaluates the spiritual significance and aims of economic exchange. Inspired by Augustine''s vision of the Church as a ''universal sacrifice'', he explores how Augustine''s approach teaches us detachment - both personal and collective - which releases us from illusory claims of ownership and reframes business as an exercise in loving and letting go. Nunziato''s volume engages with the big questions of economic life and considers both why and how we acknowledge people through business in a way that results in collective well-being. It will be of interest to scholars and students of Augustinian studies, philosophy of exchange, and economic ethics.