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The Criteria to Cope with the Economic Polarization - Focusing on the Concept of Solidarity

  • The Korean Journal of Chiristian Social Ethics
  • Abbr : 기사윤
  • 2014, (30), pp.99-126
  • Publisher : The Society Of Korean Christian Social Ethics
  • Research Area : Humanities > Christian Theology

Choi, Kyung Suk 1

1남서울대학교

Accredited

ABSTRACT

Polarization refers to the phenomenon which appears to disappear the middleclass and to divide into upper and lower classes. Discussions about the polarizationhave been in progress in Korea since the late 1990s. The polarization ofwealth has become more serious owing to the implementation of the neoliberalpolicies which primarily reduce the role of the state and actively expand the freemarket mechanisms. In order to cope with the challenges, the Korean governmentsuggests an alternative of social integration. The aim of this paper is to suggest the criteria on ethical value judgement ofChristian religion for the social integration which aims to tackle the socialpolarization. The criteria is "solidarity" which can be understood through the experiencesof Christians and the general public. In order to achieve this aim, it is very important to understand the current situationsof polarization of the labor market. The uses of the concept of "solidarity"are examined in terms of historical, sociological, philosophical and theologicalcontexts. The use of the concept is examined, in particular, through the guidancebooks of churches in German. To love our neighbors as Jesus taught and activelybind together, our christians need the faith in our life to be willing to donate ourwealths to others, although it costs. Church is one of the small organizations totackle the issue of economic polarization and to move forward to expand thewelfare of the general public. The concept of solidarity is a key to do so.

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