Moral Suasion in 2 Clement and the early Christian Church

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See all articles by David Crego

David Crego

Texas Tech University - Free Market Institute

Alexander William Salter

Texas Tech University - Rawls College of Business; American Institute for Economic Research

Date Written: November 15, 2024

Abstract

We use the tools of economics to explore the organizational rules of the early Christian church in 2 Clement. This ancient document is a homily exhorting Christians to discipline and virtue. It is valuable as a window into a nascent religious organization attempting to solve collective action problems. We argue that 2 Clement uses moral suasion to align individual self-interest with communal wellbeing. Using a rational choice approach, we show why moral suasion was a feasible governance mechanism within the early church.

Keywords: Economics of Religion, Christian church, Moral Suasion, Rational Choice

Suggested Citation

Crego, David and Salter, Alexander William, Moral Suasion in 2 Clement and the early Christian Church (November 15, 2024). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=

David Crego (Contact Author)

Texas Tech University - Free Market Institute ( email )

Box 45059
Lubbock, TX 79409-5059
United States

Alexander William Salter

Texas Tech University - Rawls College of Business ( email )

Lubbock, TX 79409
United States

HOME PAGE: http://awsalter.com

American Institute for Economic Research

PO Box 1000
Great Barrington, MA 01230
United States

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