Theism and Public Policy: Humanist Perspectives and Responses

Theists often argue this is a Christian nation, and therefore theistic sensibilities, language, and insight should play a role in developing the policities and procedures that guide public life. Nontheist often counter by arguing this isn't a Christian nation, and public life is harmed by the limited sense of morality and ethics provided by theism(s). Hence, public policy should be guided by secular ideals not tied to any particular mode of theism and that highlight the best of our democratic principles. Often missing from this exchange, however, is nature of theism's actual presence in public life: Does theism dominant the language and practices of public life in the United States? This volume explores this question from a humanist perspective, and in so doing it provides insight into the relationship of religion to public policy, and offers ways to advance a more democratic and secular public arena.

Does theism dominant the language and practices of public life in the United States? This volume explores this question from a humanist perspective, and in so doing it provides insight into the relationship of religion to public policy, and offers ways to advance a more democratic and secular public arena.

Anthony B. Pinn is Agnes Cullen Arnold Professor of Humanities, Professor of Religious Studies, and Director of the Center for Engaged Research and Collaborative Learning at Rice University. In addition, he is the director of research for the Institute for Humanities studies. He is the author/editor of 30 books, including What Has the Black Church to Do with Public Life? (2013).

Introduction. Setting the Context and Agenda

PART I: DESCRIPTION

1. Theism, Sexuality, and Social Policy: The Case of the American States; Joseph O. Baker and Buster G. Smith

2. The Rise of the Nones: Why More Americans are Becoming Secular, and What that Means for America; Phil Zuckerman

3. Understanding a 'Religious' Western Democracy: Israel and its Complexities; Adam Chalom

4. Rethinking Islam in Public Policy: A Secularist Approach; Maryam Namazie

5. Straight to Hell: Christian Fascism and Americana; Sikivu Hutchinson

PART II: PRESCRIPTION

6. The Danger for Humanism: Winning the Battles and Losing the War Against Theism in Public Policy; Barbara Forrest

7. How Should a Democracy Deal with Fundamentalism? A Humanist View; Peter Derkx

8. Putting Humanism in Public Policy; Amanda Knief