Bulls, Bears and Golden Calves: Applying Christian Ethics in Economics / Revised - eBook

John E. Stapleford (PhD, University of Delaware) is president of the Caesar Rodney Institute, an education nonprofit. He is also principle in DECON First and a professor emeritus of economic development with Eastern University. Previously he was an associate director and senior economist with Moody's Analytics, and for two decades he was the director of the Bureau of Economic Research at the University of Delaware and founded the Delaware Small Business Development Center.

With a graduate degree in government and planning and a doctorate degree in urban and regional economics, Stapleford has been published in many professional journals including Growth and Change, Christian Scholars Review, Journal of Markets & Morality, Faith & Economics, Journal of Biblical Integration in Business and the Journal of Public Budgeting, Accounting and Financial Management.

Bulls, Bears & Golden Calves opens the door for beginning students of economics to the realm of applied Christian thought on the modern economy. John Stapleford's work invites both new students and experienced economists alike to pursue this passageway. Designed to be used as a supplementary text in the teaching of economic principles, its format and content are very helpful for Christian economists looking to introduce students to a biblical perspective on a wide range of modern economic issues. Across a spectrum extending from the lending of money at interest to the thorny problem of immigration, Stapleford provides salutary, compelling examples. His discussion applies careful economic reasoning combined with ethical direction aptly derived from the Scriptures. The book takes seriously the authority of Scripture in critically reflecting on the core assumptions of economics while guiding readers in an irenic yet challenging manner. I strongly recommend Bulls, Bears & Golden Calves as an introductory guide to applying Christian ethics to the world of economics.
-Edd Noell,
Professor of Economics and Business, Westmont College

This is a wonderful book! It highlights significant economic issues being faced in America today. It fairly presents the competing worldviews regarding these problems. And it brings Scripture to bear on each area of contention in a way that challenges the reader to think Christianly.
-Richard C. Chewning,
Emeritus Chavanne Professor of Christian Ethics Applied to Business, Baylor University

How does one integrate their faith with the work of selling goods and services and making money? John Stapleford provides a careful and thoughtful Christian worldview of the marketplace. It is a must-read for the serious Christian who has a commitment not only to share their faith but also to live their faith.
-C. William Pollard,
Former Chairman and CEO of The ServiceMaster Company

A well-written, much-needed supplement to introductory economics texts.
-Dr. Marvin Olasky,
Acton Institute and the University of Texas

The study of economics should not be disconnected from ethical concerns. Bulls, Bears and Golden Calves provides clear guidance for identifying and discussing, within a Christian framework, important ethical issues connected to an economy's organization. Keying the book to the leading textbooks, John Stapleford provides an indispensable resource for students and teachers of introductory economics courses - though the book merits study outside the classroom as well. I particularly appreciated the faithful reliance on Scripture as the ethical benchmark applied throughout the book.
-Kenneth G. Elzinga,
Professor of Economics, University of Virginia