Politics as a Christian Vocation
Faith and Democracy Today

This 2004 book argues that Christian faith belongs in politics because both pursue rational forms of thought.

Franklin I. Gamwell (Author)

9780521838764, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 18 October 2004

198 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm, 0.46 kg

'At a time when there is so much spin, and there are so many half-truths in politics in this country, his book could serve as a clarion call to Christians. It is no use standing on the sidelines grumbling about how things have gone downhill. Rather - get involved, and do what you can to make a difference.' Church Times

Many democratic citizens, including many Christians, think that separation of religion from the state means the exclusion of religious beliefs from the political process. That view is mistaken. Both democracy and Christian faith, this 2004 book shows, call all Christians to make their beliefs effective in politics. But the discussion here differs from others. Most have trouble relating religion to democratic discussion and debate because they assume that religious differences cannot be publicly debated. Against this majority view, this book argues that Christian faith belongs in politics because it shares with democracy a full commitment to rational pursuit of the truth. The book then develops ideals of justice and the common good Christians should advocate within the democratic process and shows the difference they make for contemporary politics in the United States, focusing specifically on issues of abortion, affirmative action, and economic distribution.

Introduction: the present purpose
1. Render to Caesar
2. Government by the people
3. Faith and the way of reason
4. Justice in the community of love
5. Religious decisions at stake
6. Political deliberations
7. Appendix: on the humanistic commitment.

Subject Areas: Christian theology [HRCM], Philosophy of religion [HRAB], Ethics & moral philosophy [HPQ]