The Good Fight Jonathan Rauch on the Politicization of Christianity
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Mar 12, 2025 Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and author of "Cross Purposes: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy," joins Yascha Mounk for an insightful discussion. They examine the decline of religion in America and its implications for social cohesion and democracy. Rauch introduces the concept of patrimonialism to shed light on modern politics, particularly in the context of the Trump administration. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of religious institutions and the potential for a resurgence of faith amidst secularization.
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Rauch's Changing View on Christianity
- Jonathan Rauch initially viewed Christianity negatively, influenced by personal experiences and societal observations.
- His perspective shifted after encountering a devout Christian roommate who exemplified genuine faith.
Societal Effects of Christianity's Decline
- Rauch links the decline of Christianity with societal issues like declining trust in institutions and rising social isolation.
- He suggests that these are connected, though not solely caused by religious decline.
The Role of Faith in Secular Liberalism
- Rauch argues that secular liberalism struggles to answer fundamental questions about life's purpose and morality.
- Faith, particularly Christianity, offers these answers, creating a necessary tension and interdependence.
