A Theology of Incorporation with Limited Liability

14 Pages Posted: 4 Dec 2010 Last revised: 6 Dec 2010

See all articles by Stephen Copp

Stephen Copp

Bournemouth University, The Business School

Date Written: October 20, 2010

Abstract

Those involved in business have long sought to limit their liability, either in specific contracts, or generally, for the risks they face. The widespread availability of general limited liability for corporations across the world since the early 19th century is thought to have contributed to the enormous economic growth over that period. The limited liability company is, however, often blamed for the adverse consequences of this growth, not least in Christian theology, where limited liability is thought by some to be contrary to Biblical principles. This article seeks to demonstrate that the limited liability company is not only consistent with Biblical theology in encouraging prosperity and freedom under limited government, specialisation and interdependence in business relationships, and broader human flourishing but reflects the character of God in reconciling ideas of Law and Grace.

Keywords: Company Law, Incorporation, Limited Liability, Theology

JEL Classification: K22

Suggested Citation

Copp, Stephen, A Theology of Incorporation with Limited Liability (October 20, 2010). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1717743 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1717743

Stephen Copp (Contact Author)

Bournemouth University, The Business School ( email )

Fern Barrow
Poole, Dorset BH12 5BB
United Kingdom
+44 0 1202 961855 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://www.copp.me.uk

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