Politics, Religion, and the Common Good: Advancing a Distinctly American Conversation About Religion′s Role in Our Shared Life - Hardcover

Marty, Martin E.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0787950319 ISBN 13: 9780787950316

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, 2000

Synopsis

The future of America, in many ways, depends upon an understanding of the proper role of religion in our shared life as a republic. Discussions and debates on the topic have too often generated noise, platitudes, stereotypes, name--calling, and the distortion of vitally important issues, instead of constructive conversation among citizens----until now.Of all the voices commenting about American religion today, none is more credible or better known than that of historian Martin E. Marty. A respected scholar, author, editor, and media commentator, he has--perhaps better than anyone else in the field--a deep grasp on the complex issues surrounding public religion.

About this title

Review

Ordained minister and esteemed author Martin E. Marty examines the sensitive role of religion in contemporary US government and politics in this slender but brave book. Marty has never been afraid of controversy or dialogue, and this book is guaranteed to spark both. "We offer the following theses to stimulate conversation, and we expect--and welcome--agreement and disagreement alike," writes Marty. He then launches into statements such as, "Public religion can be dangerous; it should be handled with care ... Traditional institutions--congregations, denominations and ecumenical agencies--provide an effective public voice for religious people, but the political power of such groups has declined."

In his opening chapter Marty explains the perils of integrating religion into the fray of politics--such as the potential for fundamentalist extremism and religious violence. But in his second chapter "Worth the Risk," he delves into a persuasive argument for blending church and state, with assertions such as "religion can combat apathy" and "religious people can provide a voice for the voiceless." In follow-up chapters Marty discusses ways that religion can meld with government and how it could actually improve the quality of civic representation. The writing style is smooth and journalistic in tone (Marty is also a senior editor at Christian Century), yet the material represents an expansive vision and an obvious depth of thinking. --Ali Perry-Gallagher

Review

"Who better than Martin Marty, ultimate analyzer of American religion, to help us all sort out the confusion around politics and religion?" (James M. Dunn, professor of Christianity and public policy, Wake Forest Divinity School)

About this edition

• Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0787950319
• ISBN 13: 9780787950316
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 192