Jon Rauch, a senior fellow at Brookings and contributing editor at The Atlantic, discusses his new book, which examines Christianity's influence on democracy. He reflects on his personal journey with faith and doubt, and critiques the politicization of evangelicalism. The conversation touches on the evolving relationship between Christianity and liberal democracy, exploring tolerance and coexistence amidst societal tensions. Rauch also addresses the rise of alternative belief systems like wokeness and their consequences for traditional religious values.
The podcast emphasizes the need for authentic Christian practices to enhance democratic values and promote civic engagement through forgiveness and egalitarianism.
A critical examination of white evangelical movements reveals their politicization has led to a misalignment with democratic values, fostering a culture of fear rather than unity.
Deep dives
The Dynamics of Christianity and Democracy
The discussion emphasizes the intricate relationship between Christianity and liberal democracy, suggesting that genuine Christian principles can enhance democratic values. The core teachings of Christianity, such as forgiveness and egalitarianism, align with liberal democratic ideals, providing a moral framework that supports civic engagement and respect for all individuals. The podcast argues that a decline in Christianity's influence may have contributed to the challenges facing modern democracy, particularly with regard to respect for differing viewpoints. An appeal is made for the revival of authentic Christian practices that foster community and promote core democratic virtues rather than political partisanship.
Critique of White Evangelical Politics
A critical analysis of white evangelical movements reveals how their politicization has led to a misalignment with democratic values, particularly through their support of figures like Trump. This segment discusses the emergence of what is termed the 'church of fear,' where evangelical groups perceive Christianity as under threat and adopt a defensive, apocalyptic mindset. The podcast contrasts this with healthier expressions of Christianity that thrive in a pluralistic society, which engage democratically without succumbing to fear-based tactics. There is a call for evangelicals to reconsider their approach and align with the foundational teachings of Christianity that promote unity and understanding rather than division.
The Importance of Pluralism and Toleration
The conversation highlights the necessity for a balance between firm religious beliefs and the principles of pluralism in a diverse society. Toleration, drawn from Christianity, is argued to be crucial in maintaining civil discourse and coexistence in a democracy. The podcast advocates for Christians to embrace their faith while also allowing for other perspectives and identities, fostering a spirit of dialogue and mutual respect. By modeling such behaviours, Christians can contribute positively to the democratic fabric rather than retreating into isolationist or adversarial stances.
Crisis of Identity and Moral Frameworks
The podcast delves into the contemporary crisis of identity faced by many in society as values traditionally upheld by religion blend into political ideologies. It suggests that as some churches adopt politically charged narratives, they risk losing sight of their foundational spiritual and moral missions. The discussion presents the idea that a society without a strong moral compass, as provided historically by Christianity, may seek transcendence and community in potentially harmful ideologies. There's a call to re-establish a meaningful Christian identity that can coexist with, and support, democratic ideals without succumbing to partisan divides.
Jon and I go way back to the early days of the marriage movement. He’s currently a senior fellow at Brookings and a contributor editor at The Atlantic. He’s the author of many books, including Kindly Inquisitors, The Happiness Curve, and The Constitution of Knowledge — which we discussed on the Dishcast in 2021. His new book is Cross Purposes: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy.
For two clips of our convo — on fear-based Christianity, and the growing tolerance of gays by the Mormon Church — see our YouTube page.
Other topics: how Jon tried to believe in God growing up; his Christian roommate in college, Rev. Mark McIntosh; how I kept my faith through AIDS crisis; the doubt within faith; Fr. James Alison; parallels between Christianity and liberal democracy; the Reformation; Locke’s Letter Concerning Toleration; Christ’s aversion to property; church/state; the federal persecution of Mormons in the 19th century; American Primeval; Vatican II; Catholic toleration of divorce but not homosexuality; Anita Bryant; Prop 8; the gay wedding cake controversy; wokeness as a religion; Biden’s DEI as a kind of religious indoctrination; left-wing Christianity; Bishop Budde; her shrine to Matthew Shepard; the Benedict Option; the Utah Compromise; whether the LDS is truly Christian; the Respect For Marriage Act; Dobbs and Obergefell; authoritarianism abroad; the J6 pardons; Trump firing IGs; Don Jr against “turning the other cheek”; Pope Francis against proselytism; eternal truths vs. political compromise; declining church attendance; and the loss of enchantment in Christianity.
Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy (the first 102 are free in their entirety — subscribe to get everything else). Coming up: Evan Wolfson on the history of marriage equality, Yoni Appelbaum on how America stopped building things, Chris Caldwell on the political revolution in Europe, Nick Denton on China and AI, Francis Collins on faith and science, Ian Buruma on Spinoza, Michael Joseph Gross on muscles, and the great and powerful Mike White, of White Lotus fame. Please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.
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