A Christian perspective on political thought / Stephen Charles Mott.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Mott, Stephen Charles.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Christianity and politics.

Political science.

Physical Description:

338 pages ; 24 cm

Place of Publication:

New York : Oxford University Press, 1993.

Summary:

Arguing that Americans make political choices in terms of a general notion of right and wrong, yet lack a sound, objective foundation for such values, evangelical scholar Stephen Mott formulates a Christian political theory that supplies such norms. Drawing on theological and biblical sources, Mott thoroughly develops the Christian foundations for politics and political evaluation. He proposes that political philosophies should be evaluated in light of Christian theological and ethical values -- specifically the understanding of power, human nature, the nature of group life, justice and love, government, and time.

A Christian Perspective on Political Thought applies this critical framework in an evaluation of political ideologies, including traditional conservatism, liberalism, democracy, laissez-faire conservatism, Marxist socialism, and democratic socialism, giving special attention to their classical exponents and ideas. Asserting that political visions ultimately depend on cultural values that themselves require vigorous religious faith in a particular society, Mott's thoroughly interdisciplinary study offers a valuable introduction to Christian political thought as well as an illuminating look at the connection between politics and religion.

Contents:

I Focusing Theologically

1. The Goodness and Corruption of Power 13

2. Doing Human Nature Justice 26

3. Groups in Society: Danger and Deliverance 42

4. To Seek and to Distrust Government 58

5. The Challenge of Biblical Justice 74

6. Love Is Not All You Need 89

7. The Politics of Time 97

II Observing the Visions

8. The Grace of the Common Life: Traditional Conservatism 115

9. Flourish in Freedom: Liberalism 131

10. A Space in the Public Place: Democracy 150

11. Prosperity Through Unfettered Competition: Laissez-Faire Conservatism 162

12. Unfolding the Possibilities of Humanness: Marxist Socialism 183

13. Participatory Ideals Encountering Human Nature: Socialism 198

Epilogue: Are We Better Prepared? 219.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

ISBN:

0195071212

0195081382

OCLC:

26218936