Religion's Very Public Presence

Abstract

The 1984 election emphasized the public role of religion in both parties; much uneasiness about the proper place of religion in politics was revealed. The United States was originally envisioned by some religious groups as a voluntary Christian commonwealth. Although that dream is less persuasive today, religion supplies a continuing definition and critique of the public good. Growing religious diversity produces conflicting views, necessitating rethinking by mainline Protestants. A major difference is between those who nourish nationalism and an individualistic religion and those with a world-encompassing vision and a communal faith. Religion provides sustaining hope and a commitment to wholeness, and it contributes politically, often through coalitions. The role of the religious convictions of politicians was heatedly debated with modest resolution in the 1984 campaign. American democratic ideals are being tested, and religion, in dialogue with science, is challenged to help shape the nation's future.

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References

1. William Lee Miller , “The Seminarian Strain,” New Republic, 9 July 1984, p. 191.

2. Ibid.

3. Peter L. Benson and Dorothy L. Williams , Religion on Capitol Hill: Myths and Realities (New York: Harper & Row, 1982).

4. Donald W. Shriver, Jr. , and Karl A. Ostrom , Is There Hope for the City? (Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1977), pp. 109, 155.

5. For a more elaborate listing of groups, leaders, coalitions, and issue agendas, see Peggy L. Shriver , The Bible Vote: Religion and the New Right (New York: Pilgrim Press, 1981).

6. Helen J. Mayer et al. , “A Tide of Born-Again Politics,” Newsweek, 15 Sept. 1980, p. 32.

7. New York Times, 3 Sept. 1984.

8. Leon Kass , “Modern Science and Ethics,” University of Chicago Magazine, p. 27 (Summer 1984).