Faith and Law
Are Religion and Politics Indivisible? Models for Pluralist Democracies
Mar 20, 2025
Dr. Amy Black, a political science professor at Wheaton College and author of the upcoming book on civil religion, discusses the intricate relationship between religion and politics in a pluralist democracy. She critiques both strict secularism and Christian nationalism, arguing for an inclusive civil religion to foster harmony. The conversation delves into the implications of religious pluralism and advocates for shared values that embrace diversity, while encouraging believers to embody positive virtues in public life amidst today's polarized landscape.
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Quick takeaways
- An inclusive civil religion is essential for accommodating diverse beliefs while promoting shared civic values in a pluralistic democracy.
- The podcast critiques both Christian nationalism and strict secularism, advocating for a middle ground that fosters respectful engagement among varying faiths.
Deep dives
The Concept of Civil Religion in a Pluralist Democracy
An inclusive civil religion is proposed as a framework for how religion can coexist with politics in a pluralistic democracy, especially in light of the changing religious landscape in the United States. The podcast emphasizes that the nation is growing increasingly religiously diverse, with a notable rise in those identifying as 'nuns,' meaning they report no religious affiliation. This shift highlights the necessity for a model that accommodates various beliefs while promoting shared civic values. The crucial aim is to foster a political environment where people of different faiths and beliefs can engage respectfully in public life.
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