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Orthodox Values and the Ethical Challenges of the Modern Economy

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Megi Abashidze

MA student at Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University

Abstract

Research Objective: The development of the modern economic system is increasingly based on the primacy of material benefit, which often leads to the weakening of moral boundaries and the violation of principles of social justice. In this context, special importance is attached to understanding the role of Orthodox values in economic life as a moral and spiritual foundation oriented toward human dignity and the common good. The main objective of this study is to analyze the relationship between Orthodox values and the ethical challenges of the modern economy and to identify those aspects that remain relevant for the humanization of economic relations and the promotion of social stability. The research seeks to demonstrate how faith-based ethical principles can be integrated into contemporary economic processes and applied within the framework of a country’s socio-economic development.

Methodological Approach: The study is based on the analysis of Orthodox teachings, biblical texts, and the works of the Church Fathers, as well as contemporary economic and philosophical literature. Particular attention is devoted to key thematic areas such as the moral significance of labor, the relationship between property and responsibility, social justice, the ethical foundations of economic relations, the role of education and faith in economic development, the transformation of values under globalization, and the formation of human-centered economic models. The research employs historical and evolutionary approaches, logical-deductive and inductive reasoning, comparative analysis, and synthesis.

Main Findings and Practical Implications: The findings indicate that Orthodox values represent an important resource for the ethical evaluation of economic processes, allowing the economy to be considered not only in terms of efficiency but also through the prism of human dignity and social responsibility. The study demonstrates that faith-based moral principles are practically applicable in assessing contemporary economic challenges and in formulating alternative, scientifically grounded solutions. The results may be used both in academic discourse and in the development of economic policy and strategies for social development.

Keywords: economic ethics; Orthodox values; labor and responsibility; social justice; human-centered economy.

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The new Economist, No4, 2025, Vol. 20, Issue 4.

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11/01/2026

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