Catholic morality in public opinion and conservative thought in Mexico during the moderate years (1848–1853)

Abstract

This article analyzes the meaning of religious morality during the moderate period, between 1848 and 1853 – that is, from the end of the war with the United States to the end of the administration of Mariano Arista. The objective of this analysis is twofold: a) it aims to demonstrate the liveliness of public opinion during a period to which inertial stability, discouragement and fatigue are traditionally attributed; and b) it tries to measure the enormous relevance of Catholic virtue as part of the practical solutions to the Mexican disorders. This last objective is addressed within the underlying debate between the postulation of universal ethics – of profane utility and civil administration – and the vindication of Catholic virtue – of transcendent purpose and transversal relevance. For this purpose, written sources such as newspapers, brochures, books, and exhibitions of the time were consulted with the corresponding support of contemporary research. Finally, I offer a reflection on the conservative plurality around ethical issues.