Religion in America
In an election year when faith has been at the forefront of the national debate, we hope to provide the substantive background necessary to understand the role that religious traditions play in American politics and public life. Religion's role in the American public square has been shaped and shifted by a myriad of actors. Some argue that a complete separation of church and state was never intended; some call for greater religious engagement in the political process; and some cite Jefferson's "wall of separation" as evidence of a clearly defined line between the secular and the sacred.
At RPGP, we strive to provide a forum for lively discussion and nuanced research on the role of religion in America. RPGP hosts a graduate student working group focused on "Religion in Post-1865 America"; for more information, please email us. Our October 2008 conference on the "Politics of Faith," featured three panels of eminent scholars and public intellectuals; they examined the history of religion in the American public square, media coverage of matters of faith, and the influence of religion on politicians and the constituents they represent.
At RPGP, we strive to provide a forum for lively discussion and nuanced research on the role of religion in America. RPGP hosts a graduate student working group focused on "Religion in Post-1865 America"; for more information, please email us. Our October 2008 conference on the "Politics of Faith," featured three panels of eminent scholars and public intellectuals; they examined the history of religion in the American public square, media coverage of matters of faith, and the influence of religion on politicians and the constituents they represent.
In RPGP's fall 2008 lecture series, "Religion in America," speakers addressed different aspects of religious involvement, including political engagement, theological challenges, confrontations with secularism, community development, and past, current and future trends in the American religious experience.
