In discussions on the subject of economic justice, one often finds that the term "socialism" is referred to in less than glowing terms. In fact, it is trotted out as an insult, the weight of which is simply taken for granted. "That sounds like socialism" is somehow meant as a grand trump intended to silence debate. But why make that assumption? The repsonse that cannot help but be given to "that sounds like socialism" is "you make that sound like a bad thing".

The basic definition of socialism is a "general term for the political and economic theory that advocates a system of collective or government ownership and management of the means of production and distribution of goods. Because of the collective nature of socialism, it is to be contrasted to the doctrine of the sanctity of private property that characterizes capitalism. Where capitalism stresses competition and profit, socialism calls for cooperation and social service." (Source) When looked at in light of the frequent teachings of Jesus and the Apostles concerning wealth and the uses of it (Ephesians 4:28; Mark 10:21-25; Luke 12:32-34), not to mention the socialist commune begun by Peter in Jerusalem (Acts 2:42-47, 4:32-5:11).

What many critics forget, or never knew to begin with, is that socialism is mirroring what Jesus taught and the Apostles tried out. In the waning years of the 19th century and early years of the 20th, psychologist Abraham Maslow developed what he called the "hierarchy of needs": successive levels of human experience, attainable only after the previous level has been satisfied. At the top of this hierarchy is self-actualization, which is possible only after we have met our physiological, safety, social and esteem needs.

Christians, as recorded in the book of Acts, gathered and provided for oneanother so that all could have that same chance at self-actualization through intimacy with the Divine. In turn, we are taught that with this self-actualization as our intentional goal, we are not to spend too much time or effort on the lowest levels of the hierarchy... The aquisition of wealth and material goods serves a purpose, but is not a purpose unto itself, and the emphasis upon money and property is a cynically materialistic sign of spiritual immaturity. Safety then becomes a psychological issue less than a defense of property; freedom comes from within, not from the violent subjugation of our enemies. Taking a less defensive and suspicious posture towards others, we can approach them oriented towards reconciliation rather than alienation, meeting out true social needs. In this reconciliation with others, we find our true value and identity, which is esteem. And then, of course, self-actualization.

This is the heart of what has been labelled "socialism", and what those against socialist ideas are fighting against: the reconciliation and self-actualization of humanity in God.