In the Beginning ― An Economist Reads the Book of Genesis

This unique book offers an in-depth commentary on the Book of Genesis from an economic and anthropological point of view. Whilst the text appears to follow the Jewish and Christian tradition of bible commentary, it uniquely intertwines theological vision with explorations of the ethical, economics and social experiences depicted within the bible’s stories. The book follows the characteristic attitude of Jewish and Christian practices in commenting on the Bible from the original standpoint of economics. From the creation of Adam and Eve, to Joseph’s arrival in the house of Potiphar in Egypt, the chapters systematically examine well-known stories and parables to illuminate new parallels with our own time. Through this economist’s interpretation, readers will see how money and profit can be presented as being synonymous with love and life; that the first angel of the Bible was sent to console a servant; and that the word ‘profit’ made its debut when Joseph was sold into slavery. This highly informative and thought-provoking work will appeal to theologians, philosophers, professional economists and those interested in religious studies.

Luigino Bruni is Professor of Economics at the Lumsa University, Rome. For the last 20 years his research has covered many areas including ethics and economics, philosophy, the history of ideas, and theology. He is the author of A Lexicon of Social Well-Being (Palgrave, 2015), among other publications.