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We the People
The State of Partisanship
Mar 6, 2025
Jonathan Rauch, author of "Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy," and Julian Zelizer, author of "In Defense of Partisanship," dive into the escalating partisanship in America. They discuss the vital connection between faith and civic participation, examining how religious values can enhance democratic engagement. The conversation touches on the impacts of Christian nationalism within Republican politics and the importance of reviving interfaith dialogue to bridge ideological divides, while also promoting optimism and foundational American ideals.
58:17
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast emphasizes that the growing polarization in American politics is exacerbated by the alignment of evangelical churches with political movements, particularly the Republican Party, complicating civil discourse.
- The discussion advocates for a civic theology informed by Christian values, suggesting that principles like compassion and forgiveness can heal political divisions and promote effective governance.
Deep dives
The Role of Religion in Civic Life
The relationship between religion and civic participation is examined through the lens of Christianity's evolving role in American society. One key assertion is that Christianity has historically been instrumental in instilling moral values and civic responsibilities, aligning with the ideals of liberal democracy. However, as secularism has grown, so too has a fragmented version of Christianity, often resulting in what is referred to as 'thin Christianity,' which lacks the depth and community interaction essential for fostering civic virtues. The conversation suggests that a robust church model, such as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), exemplifies the integration of spiritual dedication with civic engagement, promoting negotiation and coexistence, thus fostering a deeper sense of community involvement.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode