Just Reward: The Nature of Work and Its Remuneration in the Economics and Ethics of Henry George

Abstract

Work is a fundamental reality of human existence. This essay examines in general terms the idea of work and labor, briefly explains the biblical foundation of George's perspective on work, and presents George's analysis on unemployment, technological change, and true competition. Finally, it discusses how access to the natural opportunities land provides liberates labor and advances the just distribution of wealth, connects these insights to Catholic Social Teachings (CST), and calls for more cooperation between these natural allies. © 2012 American Journal of Economics and Sociology, Inc.