The Fraternal Economy: A Pastoral Psychology of Franciscan Economics

Author: David B. Couturier
ISBN: 978-1-929569-23-6
Copyright: 2007
Pages: 205
Binding: Paperback
Imprint: Cloverdale Books

Price: $19.95 In Stock

Table of Contents

Other titles by David Couturier:
The Four Conversions: A Spirituality of Transformation

Book Description

Based on an innovative attempt by one religious congregation to reorganize its financial structures in the 21st century, this important and penetrating book analyzes economic issues and organizational dynamics from a decidedly relational perspective. Rejecting the individualism of prevailing economic models, the “fraternal economy” is presented as a new way of relating economically and socially, one that builds trust and communion rather than suspicion, exhaustion and division. This work brings together insights from two disciplines, pastoral psychology and organizational development, helping readers understand how they can live and work in a more just and collaborative way.

Praise for the Book

David Couturier’s exploration of the challenge of living a fraternal, transparent economy, over against an individualistic economy rooted in self interest, will surely help members of his own Capuchin Franciscan Order to carve a renewed identity – one reflective of their call to evangelical brotherhood – not merely the holiness and simplicity of individual friars’ lives. More important, in what many call the new global economy, this book will stimulate thinkers and ethicians to reimagine the world, indeed all creation as a community of sisters and brothers who need to develop new attitudes and learn new skills in order to survive.
~ Jack Rathschmidt, OFM Cap, Ph.D.

In recent years, psychological literature, particularly as it pertains to religious congregations, is replete with analyses of individual or organizational dynamics. Couturier’s ability to go beyond individual instances and situations and frame questions from a broader and more global perspective is impressive
~ Miriam D. Ukeritis, CSJ, Ph.D.,
Director of Research,
The Southdown Institute