Can a Catholic be Liberal? Roman Catholicism and Liberalism in a Political Economy Perspective (1800–1970)

The philosophy of the Enlightenment and political thought modernity found tough opposition in Roman Catholic Church. Liberalism was associated with Free Masons revolutionary intent. Nonetheless, liberalism economy stimulated some theoretical analysis specific positions terms social economics by This paper presents an encyclical letters other papal documents, as well writings scholars, to elaborate on points used contrast liberalism. Compromises, turning evolution position, are investigated. Lastly, epistemological historical reasons for affinity Catholicism ethical limits this similarity discussed. 1. Liberal Catholic, Italian drama