The idea of natural constraints, or instinctive urges as part of human nature are principles in both Catholicism and Marxism. Catholics recognise the Marxist idea of natural constraints, such as hunger. Catholics believe that these needs are not necessarily sinful, but the satisfaction of these urges at the expense of others, such as greed and selfishness, are sinful. While Catholics believe that the only way to overcome sin is through God, Marxism states that natural constraints are overcome by the product of work of mankind. Man is therefore key to his own freedom in Marxism, but it is recognised in Catholicism that humans can only change with God’s help, such as through grace given in the sacrament of reconciliation. This comes from the fundamental difference between the two worldviews, that Catholics believe that God created humans, and therefore only God has knowledge of the perfect intended nature of humans. On the other hand, Marxism focusses on the material, as observed in the history of humanity. Marxism therefore believes that humans can realise their identities individually through their own efforts. As Catholics believe that followers of God will receive salvation after death, this implies that a human is more than just the material. In Romans 8:10-11, it states, "but if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness... he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you." A person’s being is not bound to their physical body, but it is their true essence (the nature which God intended for us) which is saved by God. Catholics also believe human nature is expressed in communion with others. When you live in a community, you find your identity within that community in terms of your role, contribution, how you fit in the world and who you are. For Catholics, it is our intended nature to be part of the body of the Church and acting within that body as God wills. When we live in community, actions must not infringe on the rights of others, and actions should be in accordance with divine providence. The church accepts the Natural Law theory of Immanuel Kant, which summarises the natural order of morals which is a part of human nature: do what you would be happy for anyone else to do in your situation, and follow the first principle which is to preserve life. As we rely on others around us, we must take responsibility for how our actions affect others. The Catechism states that, “the divine image present in every man shines forth in the communion of persons, in the likeness of the unity of the divine persons among themselves.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1994, para. 1702, 1257) Just as the Trinity is a community of three persons, so must we live in unity with those around us. Faith in Christ is the key
…show more content…
Marx wrote in 'Critique of the Gotha program' (1875), that in the ideal communist society, "labour has become not only a means of life but life's prime want." Therefore, Marxism states that humans can only find meaning in life when we can freely and consciously make creative and productive decisions in order to transform the world around us. Marx therefore believed that without being productive, through which we can express and develop ourselves, life would become …show more content…
The original reason for God giving the 10 commandments was to create a conditional covenant. God would protect his people when they followed his commands. The commandments also served to bring the people closer to God, helping them to realise when they sinned, and then turn to God for forgiveness. The two greatest commandments are presented by Jesus as a summary of the Law and the Prophets: to love God and love others. (Matthew 22:37-38) Catholics believe that love of others is inseparable from love of God. We are able to show our love for God by treating the rest of his creation with care. Our neighbours, who are made in God's image, should be treated with unconditional love so that we can come to know God's loving nature and best serve his
Marx wrote in 'Critique of the Gotha program' (1875), that in the ideal communist society, "labour has become not only a means of life but life's prime want." Therefore, Marxism states that humans can only find meaning in life when we can freely and consciously make creative and productive decisions in order to transform the world around us. Marx therefore believed that without being productive, through which we can express and develop ourselves, life would become …show more content…
The original reason for God giving the 10 commandments was to create a conditional covenant. God would protect his people when they followed his commands. The commandments also served to bring the people closer to God, helping them to realise when they sinned, and then turn to God for forgiveness. The two greatest commandments are presented by Jesus as a summary of the Law and the Prophets: to love God and love others. (Matthew 22:37-38) Catholics believe that love of others is inseparable from love of God. We are able to show our love for God by treating the rest of his creation with care. Our neighbours, who are made in God's image, should be treated with unconditional love so that we can come to know God's loving nature and best serve his