America's Religious Wars: The Embattled Heart of Our Public Life

American conflicts about religion have always symbolized our foundational political values, as religion is built on enduring contradictions within our core political values. This book explores how religion has symbolized but never resolved our deepest political questions, such as George Washington's battle with Quaker pacifists, Teddy Roosevelt's concept of land versus the Lakotas concept, and the creation-evolution controversy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 06 August 2019
Publisher: Yale University Press

When Americans engage in discussions about "religion," they are in fact engaging in a battle over their diverse identities, interests, and commitments. The realm of religion serves as a convenient platform for these conflicts, as it is rooted in enduring contradictions within our fundamental political values. While the Constitution seeks to confine religion within a wall, the Framers of the Constitution viewed religion as the cornerstone of the American republic. Since then, Americans have used disagreements on various other issues as an opportunity to perpetuate an endless debate about the role of religion in public life.

This book, organized around a series of compelling narratives, including George Washington's conflict with Quaker pacifists, the struggle of Mormons and Catholics for equality with Protestants, Teddy Roosevelt's concept of land versus the Lakota concept, the creation-evolution controversy, and the struggle over sexuality, aims to demonstrate how religion has served as a symbol for, but never a resolution for, our deepest political questions throughout American history.

Through a comprehensive exploration of these narratives, the book sheds light on the ways in which religion has been used to shape American society, influence public policy, and shape the political discourse of the nation. It also highlights the challenges and complexities associated with reconciling religious beliefs and values with the demands of a democratic society. By examining the historical and contemporary implications of religion in American politics, this book provides valuable insights into the ongoing struggle for a harmonious and inclusive society.

Weight: 662g
Dimension: 240 x 172 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300213867