Christian Perspectives on the Role of the State, Justice, and Taxation

This book, Christian Perspectives on the Role of the State, Justice, and Taxation, examines the historical and ongoing influence of Christian ethical thought on taxation, governance, and distributive justice. Building on themes introduced in Political Philosophy and Taxation (Springer, 2022), which focused on secular perspectives, this sequel shifts attention to the contributions of Christian thinkers from Medieval times to the present. The book explores key questions surrounding the role of the state, the relationship between the state and its subjects, the moral right to tax, and what constitutes fairness in taxation. It investigates how Christian ethical teachings have shaped Western political philosophy, particularly in the context of distributive justice, and evaluates their relevance in contemporary discussions. By analyzing the intersection of theology, ethics, and political philosophy, this book provides a deeper understanding of how Christian traditions have influenced historical notions of justice, fairness, and governance. It offers insights into how these principles can inform modern policy debates and ethical considerations in taxation. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and professionals interested in religious ethics, political philosophy, and public policy. It invites readers to reflect on the enduring impact of Christian thought on concepts of justice and the responsibilities of the state.

Introduction christian ethics and its influence on taxation.- Judeo christian theories of taxation the jewish perspective.- Lactantius in time conversion taxes and sovereignty.- The meaning for taxation of st augustines political and social philosophy.- Thomas Aquinas his work justice the state and taxation.- John duns scotus medieval franciscan political and economic philosophy.- William of ockham tax power and service.- Lutheran views on state and taxation.- Reformed views on state and taxation divine sovereignty and the civil kingdom.- Moral theology and taxation in late spanish scholastics reflection from juan de lugo.

Dr. Robert F. van Brederode is a tax law professor and tax practitioner with over 35 years of experience. He received his education in the Netherlands, a Master's of Law from Utrecht University, and a PhD in tax law from Amsterdam University. He practiced with several of the Big 4 firms in the Netherlands and the USA and is a former PwC partner. During his career, he has always combined practice with academic research and teaching. He served as an assistant professor at Maastricht University, School of Law, (full) professor at the Erasmus University, School of Economics, and adjunct professor at New York University, School of Law. Currently, he is associated with the Global Humanistic University in Curacao, focusing of supervising PhD students in the area legal studies. Robert is the author of dozens of journal articles and (co) author and (co)editor of 11 books.