“Budgets are moral documents.” That quote is attributed to Martin Luther King Jr. In fact, King never said that exact phrase. But it is in keeping with his general philosophy that how governments choose to spend — or not spend — money reveals their moral character by showing what is important to them.
If that’s the case, what does a budget a government’s morals and values? All the major religions have opinions on this. Christians cite the example of Jesus with his instructions to always remember “the least of these.” Jews think of the Old Testament prophets who condemned leaders who “trampled the poor” or hoarded wealth while neglecting widows, orphans, and strangers.
Among the core ideals of Islam is the promotion of justice and social welfare, including always remembering the needs of those who are poor. In Hinduism, rulers have a sacred duty to promote the welfare of all.
Buddhists believe that governments should follow the Dasa Raja Dhamma, or the “Ten Duties of a King” including things like compassion, integrity, honesty, selflessness, non-violence and the alleviation of suffering. First Nations believe that governance is about creating harmony between people, communities and with the natural world.
With that in mind, what does the latest federal budget look like to you?
Read more in my latest Free Press column.
Photo above from the CBC.
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