JD Vance, the US Vice President, has released a thought-provoking new book, 'Communion', which delves into the complex interplay between faith, modern life, and societal addiction. Building on the themes of his acclaimed memoir, 'Hillbilly Elegy', Vance now extends his analysis to the broader societal structures influencing ambitious professionals in the UK, where the pursuit of status and income can often come at the expense of genuine well-being.
At its core, 'Communion' is a biblical inquiry into what it means to live a life that values true purpose over superficial success. Vance argues that pervasive mechanisms in education, professional spheres, and politics compel individuals to desire what others want, rather than what they truly value. He recounts his own experience of feeling unprepared for fatherhood despite his professional successes, highlighting the societal disconnect between career advancement and nurturing meaningful family life.
Vance critiques the 'inhumanly feverish' work patterns and 'hyper-anxious conformity' prevalent in contemporary society, drawing on his time at Yale Law School where he observed an 'iron grip' of progressive orthodoxies. He suggests that expressing dissenting views can lead to social ostracism, with both left and right often striving for assimilation into an 'administrative aristocracy' prioritising maximal personal liberty.
The book also explores Vance's personal return to Christian faith, specifically Catholicism, which he sees as offering a language and ritual of repentance and renewal. He advocates for 'liberation in guilt', contrasting with what he perceives as 'quick spiritual fixes' in the evangelical world of his upbringing. This perspective, he suggests, fosters candour about personal failures and a capacity for mercy and hope.
'Communion' also examines Catholic social analysis, particularly its critique of economic systems that prioritise profit over human dignity. Referencing Pope Leo XIII's teachings from the late 19th century, Vance underscores the importance of economic life enabling meaningful ownership, just wages, and human flourishing. He offers a scathing account of a conversation regarding immigration policy, where migrant labour was presented as a means to avoid higher wages for citizens, securing greater profits.
Ultimately, Vance's book challenges readers in the UK to re-examine their values and priorities, questioning whether the pursuit of status and income is truly sustainable in the long term. By exploring the intersection of faith, politics, and economics, 'Communion' offers a timely critique of modern society that resonates with British readers concerned about the impact of societal addiction on their daily lives.