1. Theodore Forstmann argues that capitalism promotes freedom of choice and rewards individual achievement. David Hilfiker, on the other hand, contends that capitalism fosters selfishness and greed, and undermines the dignity of work. Whose argument is more persuasive, and why? Based on what you have read in these viewpoints, does capitalism’s philosophy benefit American society? Why or why not?
2. Philip Yancey maintains that without the guidance of religion, society has no way of distinguishing between right and wrong. Do you agree with his belief that religion is the only reliable guide to determining what is right and wrong? What alternative view does Dave Matson propose?
3. According to Jean Bethke Elshtain, the breakdown of the traditional, two-parent family is the cause of a variety of social problems, including poverty, crime, illegitimacy, and drug abuse. How do Arlene Skolnick and Stacey Rosencrantz refute this claim? In your...