Finance for the Common Good: Thomistic Principles and Current Challenges

Abstract

This article examines the links between finance and the common good. Firstly, our aim is to reflect upon this notion in the financial order by relying on fundamental writings. The study of the use of money according to the Thomistic approach, through loans and speculation, then provides food for thought to respond to future challenges. Saint Thomas emphasises the importance of sharing money and profit, of free loans, of the finality of the act and of the use value. Finally, we will show how these concepts can be developed today for a finance destined to the Common Good in the philosophical sense, thanks to participative finance, solidarity finance, microcredit, social bonds and green bonds.