Why Religion Is Good for American Democracy

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This book explores the role of religion in American democracy, highlighting the divided scholarly and public opinions on its impact. Some argue that religion benefits democracy, while others see it as harmful, with a middle ground suggesting that the type of religion matters. Robert Wuthnow contends that these perspectives oversimplify a complex issue. The diversity of religion in the U.S. is crucial, as it fosters engagement among faith communities on pressing societal issues, often involving competition among different groups. Wuthnow asserts that this deep diversity has generally led to positive political outcomes. People of faith actively participate in shaping the nation's policies, advocating for their beliefs. The variety of religious groups helps prevent any single ideology from dominating and introduces innovative ideas into public discourse. The book presents empirical evidence of how diverse religious organizations have influenced democratic values over the past century. Each chapter serves as a case study, examining instances where religious groups have fought against tyranny, supported freedom of assembly, championed human dignity, advocated for immigrant rights, and addressed wealth disparities. Unlike many works that criticize religious involvement in politics, this book offers a nuanced perspective on the contributions of diverse religious groups to democracy.