Marxist Roots of Western Culture Discussed by Catholic Bishop
A notable Catholic figure has drawn attention to the Marxist influences within Western culture, following remarks from New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Bishop Robert Barron recently shared a video on the X platform, praising State Premier Marco Rubio’s defense of Western culture during the Munich Security Conference. Barron highlighted Rubio’s references to the shared cultural heritage of Europe and America, such as Gothic cathedrals, Dante, Shakespeare, and even The Beatles.
“What he was suggesting was that we need to look past our political differences and recognize the culture that binds us,” Barron explained. He emphasized that this perspective aligns closely with thoughts expressed by Pope Benedict.
The bishop then shifted focus to Ocasio-Cortez, who had downplayed Rubio’s assertion about Western culture. She emphasized, in a somewhat dismissive tone, that this cultural foundation is quite fragile and should be viewed through a class-based lens focusing on the common good.
“Honestly, I found her response quite surprising and, frankly, enlightening,” Barron remarked. “She suggests that culture is merely temporary and not something we should prioritize; instead, we should concentrate on economic struggles.”
“You know, here’s the thing,” he chuckled, “this all boils down to Marxist thinking.”
He posed a rhetorical question about the cultural contributions of the West that have influenced individual rights, democratic institutions, and the university system. “Is that truly ‘thin’? I mean, really? Culture does change, it’s alive, but to dismiss it as minor—well, that’s a classic Marxist argument,” he asserted.
Bishop Barron traced Marx’s perspective, stating that he viewed culture as an incidental layer placed over an economic foundation. He encouraged political figures like Mayor Zoran Mamdani and Ocasio-Cortez’s supporters to engage with those who have experienced the harsh realities of Marxist regimes.
“My worry is that many leaders on the American left are becoming unabashed in adopting Marxist principles,” Barron warned. “It’s vital for them to understand the ramifications of such ideologies and to hear firsthand accounts from those who endured, and continue to endure, under Marxist oppression in places like Cuba, North Korea, and Venezuela.”
As a bishop, Barron voiced additional concerns about the implications of Marxism targeting religion itself. He recalled Marx’s assertion that critiquing religion was fundamental to his ideology, indicating a broader trend where Marxist regimes often suppress religious expression.
“This isn’t just a political standpoint for me; as someone within the Catholic Church, it raises serious alarms,” he remarked. “We should really consider what these leaders are claiming because it offers insight into their belief systems and intentions. It’s genuinely concerning, I think.”
Bishop Barron serves the Diocese of Winona-Rochester in Minnesota.
