The Protestant Libertarian Podcast Ep 222: Why Christians Should Be Leftists with Phil Christman
Sep 30, 2025
Join Phil Christman, a writing professor and author of Why Christians Should Be Leftists, as he explores the surprising connection between leftist politics and Christianity. He shares his journey through leftist thought, critiques the failures of the Christian right and the Democratic Party, and discusses how the Sermon on the Mount serves as a moral foundation for social justice. Phil also tackles capitalism's dangers, the value of meaningful work, and how Christians can engage constructively with political others, urging humility over ego.
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Substantive Critique Of The Christian Right
- Phil's critique of the Christian right focuses on the substance of its politics, not merely imposition of religion.
- He objects to policies and rhetoric that dehumanize neighbors, like harsh immigration and punitive prisons.
Why Democrats Also Fall Short
- Phil criticizes the Democratic Party for cowardice and sacrificing principle to coalition pressures and powerful donors.
- He warns that an unstable coalition defaults to partners with the most money and institutional authority.
Capitalism As Concentrated Power
- Phil defines capitalism as private control of production and profits flowing first to owners, which concentrates power.
- He worries leaving vast economic power in private hands creates perverse incentives and systemic injustice.
