55: ECONOMICS--BAHA'I

"As you say, the Writings are not so rich on this subject and many issues

at present baffling the minds of the world are not even mentioned. The

primary consideration is the spirit that has to permeate our economic

life, and this will gradually crystallize itself into definite

institutions and principles that will help to bring about the ideal

condition foretold by Baha'u'llah."

"No, Baha'u'llah did not bring a complete system of economics to the

world. Profit sharing is recommended as a solution to one form of economic

problems. There is nothing in the teachings against some kind of

capitalism; its present form, though, would require adjustments to be

made."

"There are practically no technical teachings on economics in the Cause,

such as banking, the price system, and others. The Cause is not an

economic system, nor its Founders be considered as having been technical

economists. The contribution of the Faith to this subject is essentially

indirect, as it consists of the application of spiritual principles to our

present-day economic system. Baha'u'llah has given us a few basic

principles which should guide future Baha'i economists in establishing

such institutions which will adjust the economic relationships of the

world...

"Social inequality is the inevitable outcome of the natural inequality of

man. Human beings are different in ability and should, therefore, be

different in their social and economic standing. Extremes of wealth and

poverty should, however, be abolished...

"The Master has definitely stated that wages should be unequal, simply

because that men are unequal in their ability and hence should receive

wages that would correspond to their varying capacities and resources."

Directives from the Guardian · 第 59 / 225 题