The Secular Paradox: On the Religiosity of the Not Religious

The Secular Paradox explores how secularism can appear religious due to Christianity's influence on culture, leading to ambivalence towards belief, community, ritual, conversion, and tradition. It relies on ethnographic research to understand the struggles of secular misfits and how they are creating new forms of secular "religiosity" that are transforming the American religious landscape.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2022
Publisher: New York University Press

A groundbreaking exploration of secularism reveals the enigmatic nature of why being secular can sometimes resemble religious practices. For the rapidly growing secular population in America, religion often sparks skepticism and unease, manifesting in various aspects of society, including politics, holidays, and even everyday events like weddings and funerals. In his book, "The Secular Paradox," Joseph Blankholm challenges the notion that nonbelievers can entirely avoid religious influence. Through extensive ethnographic research among secular activists and organized nonbelievers in the United States, Blankholm delves into the complex ambivalence of secular individuals toward belief, community, ritual, conversion, and tradition. He explores how even those who strive to embrace a purely secular existence often find themselves grappling with the paradoxical nature of their position, oscillating between the extremes of absolute non-religion and partial participation in a religion-like secular tradition.

Blankholm relies heavily on the voices of women and people of color to shed light on the experiences of secular misfits, those who struggle to conform to the normative secularism prevalent in the United States. These individuals' struggles highlight the rejection of aspects of life that resemble Christian practices and the embrace of a European tradition that values reason and avoids emotional involvement. Women, people of color, and secular individuals who have transitioned from non-Christian religions play a crucial role in challenging the limitations and contradictions of secularism, leading to the emergence of new and transformative ways of being secular that are reshaping the American religious landscape.

The Secular Paradox offers a profound and thought-provoking examination of the complex relationship between secularism and religion, challenging preconceived notions and providing a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences of nonbelievers in contemporary society. Through its rich ethnographic insights and insightful analysis, Blankholm's book offers valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities faced by secular individuals as they navigate the complexities of a religiously diverse nation.

Weight: 488g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781479809509