“The propensity in our predatory economy to deny generosity toward the vulnerable is a function of the illusion of self-sufficiency, in which the awareness of the “neighbor” disappears from consciousness. We then enjoy a torrent of self-congratulatory, self-preoccupied greed that regards the needy neighbor as a threat, not entitled to any generosity.”

“The propensity in our predatory economy to deny generosity toward the vulnerable is a function of the illusion of self-sufficiency, in which the awareness of the “neighbor” disappears from consciousness. We then enjoy a torrent of self-congratulatory, self-preoccupied greed that regards the needy neighbor as a threat, not entitled to any generosity.”

— Walter Brueggemann