The Political Origins of Religious Liberty

This book argues that political leaders are likely to permit religious freedoms if they enhance power or economic well-being.

Anthony Gill (Author)

9780521612739, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 29 October 2007

280 pages
22.6 x 15.2 x 1.8 cm, 0.43 kg

'[ Anthony Gill's The Political Origins of Religious Liberty and Bryan McGraw's Faith in Politics]provide compelling and original insights on the interaction between religion and politics in modern society … these books provide an excellent introduction to the study of religion and politics. Both works depart from the usual abstract exercises in political theory and focus instead on historically oriented empirical research, to present political science as an empirical discipline. Both are intensely argued, theoretically sophisticated and empirically well supported. They are a delight to read and should be recommended to students of religious studies, political sociology and comparative politics.' Sarbeswar Sahoo, Political Studies Review

The issue of religious liberty has gained ever-increasing attention among policy makers and the public. Whereas politicians have long championed the idea of religious freedom and tolerance, the actual achievement of these goals has been an arduous battle for religious minorities. What motivates political leaders to create laws providing for greater religious liberty? In contrast to scholars who argue that religious liberty results from the spread of secularization and modern ideas, Anthony Gill argues that religious liberty results from interest-based calculations of secular rulers. Using insights from political economists, Gill develops a theory of the origins of religious liberty based upon the political and economic interests of governing officials. Political leaders are most likely to permit religious freedom when it enhances their own political survival, tax revenue, and the economic welfare of their country. He explores his theory using cases from British America, Latin America, Russia, and the Baltic states.

1. Introduction: of liberty, laws, religion, and regulation
2. The political origins of religious liberty
3. Colonial British America
4. Mexico and Latin America
5. The Eastern Bloc and the Baltics (with Cheryl Zilinskas)
6. We gather together: the consequences of religious liberty.

Subject Areas: Political science & theory [JPA], Politics & government [JP], Religion & politics [HRAM2]