The search for social salvation : social Christianity and America, 1880-1925 / Gary Scott Smith.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Smith, Gary Scott, 1950-

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Christian sociology--United States--History--19th century.

Christian sociology.

Christian sociology--United States--History--20th century.

History.

United States.

Physical Description:

x, 545 pages ; 24 cm

Place of Publication:

Lanham, Md. : Lexington Books, [2000]

Summary:

In their studies of social Christianity, scholars of American religion have devoted critical attention to a group of theologically liberal pastors, primarily in the Northeast. Gary Scott Smith attempts to paint a more complete picture of the movement. Smith's ambitious and thorough study amply demonstrates how social Christianity--which included blacks, women, Southerners, and Westerners--worked to solve industrial, political, and urban problems; reduce racial discrimination; increase the status of women; curb drunkenness and prostitution; strengthen the family; upgrade public schools; and raise the quality of public health. In his analysis of the available scholarship and case studies of individuals, organizations, and campaigns central to the movement, Smith makes a convincing case that social Christianity was the most widespread, long-lasting, and influential religious social reform movement in American history.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 475-518) and index.

ISBN:

073910196X

OCLC:

44650828