Michael Novak (1933–2017) was an American Catholic philosopher, theologian, journalist, and diplomat known for his contributions to political theory, economics, and religious thought. A leading neoconservative figure, he explored faith, democracy, and capitalism.
Born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, he studied at Stonehill College, the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, and Harvard University, earning degrees in philosophy and theology. Initially a capitalism critic, he later became a vocal defender, arguing free markets align with human dignity and moral responsibility. Novak served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights (1981–82) and received the Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion (1994.)
His seminal work, The Spirit of Democratic Capitalism (1982,) offered a moral and philosophical defense of capitalism, influencing policymakers worldwide. Other notable books include The Open Church (1964,) Will It Liberate? (1986,) Business as a Calling (1996,) and No One Sees God (2008.) His writings in National Review and First Things shaped conservative intellectual discourse.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Michael Novak
To know oneself is to disbelieve utopia.
—Michael Novak
Command by instinct is swifter, subtler, deeper, more accurate, more in touch with reality than command by conscious mind. The discovery takes one’s breath away.
—Michael Novak
Topics: Instincts, Reason
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