Religion and Contemporary Liberalism

Political philosophy in the English-speaking world has been dominated for more than two decades by various versions of liberal theory, which holds that political inquiry should proceed without reference to religious views. Although a number of philosophers have contested this stance, no one has succeeded in dislodging liberalism from its position of dominance.

The most interesting challenges to liberalism have come from those outside of the discipline of philosophy. Sociologists, legal scholars, and religious ethicists have attacked liberalism's embodiment in practice, arguing that liberal practice—particularly in the United States—has produced a culture which trivializes religion. This culture, they argue, is at odds with the beliefs and practices of large numbers of citizens.

Disciplinary barriers have often limited scholarly exchange among philosophical liberals and their critics in theology. Religion and Contemporary Liberalism, edited by Paul J. Weithman, brings together essays by philosophers, sociologists, theologians, and legal theorists that are intended to encourage discussion among those concerned with the place of religion in a liberal society.

Contributors: Paul J. Weithman, Robert Audi, Sanford Levinson, Martha C. Nussbaum, Philip L. Quinn, Nicholas Wolterstorff, Timothy P. Jackson, J. L. A. Garcia, Jean Bethke Elshtain, John A. Coleman, S.J., and David Hollenbach, S.J.