Faith-based community organizers have spent decades working for greater equality in American society; and more recently have become significant players in shaping health care; finance; and immigration reform at the highest levels of government. In A Shared Future; Richard L. Wood and Brad R. Fulton draw on a new national study of community organizing coalitions and in-depth interviews of key leaders in this field to show how faith-based organizing is creatively navigating the competing aspirations of America’s universalist and multiculturalist democratic ideals; even as it confronts three demons bedeviling American politics: economic inequality; federal policy paralysis; and racial inequity. With a broad view of the entire field and a distinct empirical focus on the PICO National Network; Wood and Fulton’s analysis illuminates the tensions; struggles; and deep rewards that come with pursuing racial equity within a social change organization and in society. Ultimately; A Shared Future offers a vision for how we might build a future that embodies the ethical democracy of the best American dreams. An interview of the authors on the subject of faith leaders organizing for justice (Peace Talks Radio; copyright Good Radio Shows; Inc.) can be heard at this link: https://beta.prx.org/stories/190030
#595906 in Books Mark A Smith 2015-09-11Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.00 x 6.00l; .0 #File Name: 022627506X288 pagesSecular Faith How Culture Has Trumped Religion in American Politics
Review
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. A masterful examination of the relationship between American politics and religionBy JR in NMThis book is an informative and thoroughly engrossing analysis of the interplay between the secular and religious forces that shape American politics. Mark Smith carefully examines a variety of historical and contemporary topics to demonstrate that the so-called "culture wars;" rather than being a singular and ominous feature of modern politics; are actually just the latest in a series of skirmishes that have arisen repeatedly throughout American history. Smith also shows that the battle lines between the combatants are not the static and entrenched positions that most people assume; but are in fact fluid and constantly evolving -- and are also consistently moving in a direction that is largely determined by the secular culture. Smith provides a lucid and compelling argument; presenting a wealth of information and detailed case studies that illuminate his broader themes across the full arc of American history.This book is a rarity in any field: it is not only accessible and direct enough to appeal to the novice; but also substantive and nuanced enough to inform and captivate those with a more seasoned background. Always well-written; impeccably researched; and unceasingly interesting; this is easily one of the most thought-provoking and rewarding books I have read in years. Whatever your political and religious beliefs; Secular Faith will change what you think -- and how you think -- about American politics and religion. Culture warriors; partisans; noncombatants; and observers alike would do well to read this book and absorb its lessons.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Dr. F. H. Richardvery insightful and helpful.. Should be helpful to the church in doing ministryDr.Frederick H. Richard1 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy em2Very interesting book
