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.
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.
Evolution and Consequences of Partisanship
The discussion highlights the evolution of partisanship in America, tracing its roots back to the founding principles while illustrating the current exacerbation of political polarization. Both authors note that the reliance on civil society, including religious institutions, has waned, contributing to an environment where sharp partisanship thrives. The alignment of evangelical churches with political movements, particularly the Republican Party and the MAGA movement, is underscored as a significant factor destabilizing civil discourse. This trend reflects a broader pattern of 'sharp Christianity,' which intertwines faith with political identity, leading to increased societal division and making it challenging to foster healthy governance.
Civic Theology and the Path Forward
A vital theme discussed is the concept of civic theology, which suggests that the teachings of Christianity can inform and potentially heal the political landscape. Specific tenets, such as compassion, forgiveness, and the repulsion of fear, are highlighted as conducive to liberal democratic ideals. The LDS Church is presented as a constructive model, effectively balancing its religious convictions with civic engagement to seek common ground on contentious issues. By embracing these core virtues, all faiths and civic institutions can reinforce a legacy of pluralism and mutual respect, leading to a rejuvenated civic atmosphere.
A Call for Responsible Partisanship
The current state of hyper-partisanship is critiqued, with a strong argument for the necessity of responsible partisanship in achieving effective governance. Historical context is provided, illustrating how institutional reforms have often stripped parties of their ability to cohesively represent differing viewpoints, leading to more chaos and gridlock. The suggestion is made that the presence of strong, responsible political parties is essential for fostering meaningful dialogue and action in government. Emphasis is placed on the need for civic education and grassroots movements to cultivate a political environment where cooperation, rather than antagonism, can pave the way for addressing the complexities of contemporary issues.
Jonathan Rauch, author of Cross Purposes: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy, and Julian Zelizer, author of In Defense of Partisanship, join Jeffrey Rosen for a wide-ranging discussion on their new books and the rise of partisanship in America.
This conversation was originally streamed live as part of the NCC’s America’s Town Hall program series on March 3, 2025.
