Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy
Jan 30, 2025
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Jonathan Rauch, author of "Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy," passionately argues for a harmonious relationship between Christian values and liberal democracy. He discusses the declining influence of Christianity in American public life and critiques the rise of divisive ideologies in its absence. Rauch emphasizes the importance of character and moral education in governance. He also reflects on how political identities have overtaken religious affiliations, urging a return to principles like courage and dignity to foster civil discourse.
The decline of white Protestantism in the US has contributed to a reliance on divisive ideologies that undermine civil society's moral fabric.
Encouraging Christians to return to fundamental principles aligned with democratic values can enhance political engagement and strengthen communal bonds.
Deep dives
The Case for Christianity's Value
Christianity plays a crucial role in providing individuals with a sense of purpose, community, and moral grounding beyond personal preferences. The decline of white Protestantism in America has led many to seek alternative belief systems that often lack the constructive values traditionally offered by Christianity. This shift has given rise to pseudo-religions and divisive ideologies, such as QAnon and extreme partisanship, which fail to foster the higher virtues of civil society. The recognition of Christianity's significance highlights the importance of revitalizing this foundational belief system to strengthen communal bonds and cultivate shared values.
Decline and Restructuring of Religious Affiliations
There is a significant decline in religious affiliation in the United States, evidenced by a stark increase in the number of individuals who never attend religious services. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift, with church membership dropping from about 70% to below 50% in recent years. As people leave organized religion, many are shifting their allegiances to political identities, channeling their energies into partisanship rather than spiritual exploration. This reorientation not only intensifies political conflict but also diminishes the role of faith in promoting moral and civic virtues.
A Call for Christians to Reconnect with Core Values
The challenge lies in encouraging Christians to return to fundamental Christian principles that align with democratic values, such as trust, dignity, and civility. Embracing the teachings of Jesus can help Christians navigate the political landscape more effectively, promoting compromise and understanding rather than fear and animosity. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serves as a model by integrating a civic theology that emphasizes patience and negotiation in public discourse. By adopting such an approach, Christians can help reshape political engagement to reflect their core values and strengthen democracy.
What does a Christian theology consistent with liberal values and institutions look like? Jonathan Rauch suggests something has gone wrong in communities of faith in the US, and hopes for a reckoning in Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy.