The Idolatry of Money and Human Rights

Jung Mo Sung

ISBN 10: 0567726835 / ISBN 13: 9780567726834

Published by Bloomsbury Publishing PLC, GB, 2026

About this Item

A powerful theological critique of neoliberalism and contemporary capitalism and its corrosive effects on human dignity and social justice. Writing from Latin America's liberationist tradition and his position as a theologian in Brazil, Sung argues that neoliberal economics has not only created unprecedented inequality, but also birthed a new cultural myth: that the market is sacred. Drawing on biblical faith, Catholic social teaching, and real-world examples from around the globe, and providing lucid descriptions of contributions from key economists and liberation theologians, he challenges the modern separation between faith and economics, calling instead for a renewed commitment to human rights and the Church's option for the poor. Sung's central claim is provocative and urgent: the worship of money in today's world is a form of idolatry that contradicts both the gospel and reason. The Church must reject neutrality, he writes, and speak prophetically on behalf of the excluded. Originally published in Portuguese, this English translation brings to a wider audience a passionate, accessible, and intellectually rich argument that faith and reason demand action in the face of systemic injustice.

Seller Inventory # LU-9780567726834

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Idolatry of Money and Human Rights
• Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC, GB
• Publication Date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0567726835
• ISBN 13: 9780567726834
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: New
• Weight: 303 grams

About this title

Synopsis

A powerful theological critique of neoliberalism and contemporary capitalism and its corrosive effects on human dignity and social justice. Writing from Latin America's liberationist tradition and his position as a theologian in Brazil, Sung argues that neoliberal economics has not only created unprecedented inequality, but also birthed a new cultural myth: that the market is sacred. Drawing on biblical faith, Catholic social teaching, and real-world examples from around the globe, and providing lucid descriptions of contributions from key economists and liberation theologians, he challenges the modern separation between faith and economics, calling instead for a renewed commitment to human rights and the Church's option for the poor. Sung's central claim is provocative and urgent: the worship of money in today's world is a form of idolatry that contradicts both the gospel and reason. The Church must reject neutrality, he writes, and speak prophetically on behalf of the excluded. Originally published in Portuguese, this English translation brings to a wider audience a passionate, accessible, and intellectually rich argument that faith and reason demand action in the face of systemic injustice.

About the Author

Jung Mo Sung is Professor of Religious Studies at the Methodist University of São Paulo, Brazil. A prominent voice in Latin American liberation theology, he is the author of numerous books on faith, justice, and economics. Born in South Korea and raised in Brazil, Sung brings a unique intercultural perspective to questions of global inequality and Christian responsibility. His work bridges theological reflection with the urgent demands of social and economic transformation.