These questions will not go away. In fact, the intensity of the debate over these issues seems to grow more fierce over time. The Clinton-Lewinsky scandal, state legislation on abortion, same sex marriage, and educational curriculae are but some of the issues for battlegrounds in what has become known as the "culture war." Election time might be an appropriate moment to reflect on the principles that should guide Christians to their proper role in political affairs.
America Shrugged Bob Jones IV Republicans counted on America's sense of disgust over presidential misdeeds to propel them to new electoral heights. It didn't happen and there was no Plan B - a positive agenda - so the Grand Old Party barely held on to its congressional majority.
Ralph Reed's Real Agenda Richard John Neuhaus Fr. Neuhaus provides this review of Ralph Reed's book "Active Faith: How Christians Are Changing the Soul of American Politics." The reviewer provides insight into the broader issues that the book only mentions in passing, the general principles and problems of Christian action in the political world.
Political Education and Political Action Andrew A. Siicree Although written as part of a guide to pro-life activism, this article has broad application in helping Christians become active in the political sphere.
Who Elected Clinton: A Collision of Values John Green, Lyman Kellstedt, James Guth, and Corwin Smidt Were there substantive issues in the 1996 presidential campaign? As we look back, the election was instructive as to how the current political alignments are divided. The authors describe these divisions in a broad historical context.
A Christian View of Politics, Government, and Social Action Kerby Anderson Mr. Anderson gives a Christian view on government and its relation to human nature.
To Be Citizens Again William A. Schambra Many people vote for a candidate based on his or her position on welfare issues. Since the New Deal, it has been common to assume that the government should be responsible for the well-being of all citizens. At one time Americans looked to what may be called "mediating structures" to help those in need. Perhaps it is time to reconsider helping the needy primarily through volunteer efforts.
The Problem With Liberalism J. Budziszewski The author considers the philosophic principles of liberalism.
The Problem With Conservatism J. Budziszewski The author criticizes what he believes are the core principles of conservatism.
Who's Stupid Now? James Nuechterlein This article briefly considers the conflict of ideas between liberalism and conservatism in 20th century America.
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