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American exceptionalism and civil religion : reassesing the history of an idea / John D. Wilsey ; foreword by John Fea.
- Format:
- Book
- Author/Creator:
- Wilsey, John D., author.
- Fea, John, author of introduction, etc.
- Language:
- English
- Subjects (All):
- Christianity and politics--United States.
- Christianity and politics.
- Exceptionalism--United States.
- Exceptionalism.
- Nationalism--United States.
- Nationalism.
- United States--Religion.
- United States.
- Physical Description:
- 1 online resource (267 p.)
- Place of Publication:
- Downers Grove, Illinois : IVP Academic, 2015.
- Language Note:
- English
- Summary:
- Ever since John Winthrop told his fellow colonists in 1630 that they were about to establish a City upon a Hill, the idea of having a special place in history has captured the American imagination. Through centuries of crises and opportunities, many have taken up this theme to inspire the nation. But others have criticized the notion because it implies a sense of superiority which can fuel racism, warmongering and even idolatry.In this remarkable book, John Wilsey traces the historical development of exceptionalism, including its theological meaning and implications for civil religion. From seventeenth-century Puritans to twentieth-century industrialists, from politicians to educators, exceptionalism does not appear as a monolithic concept to be either totally rejected or devotedly embraced. While it can lead to abuses, it can also point to constructive civil engagement and human flourishing. This book considers historically and theologically what makes the difference.Neither the term nor the idea of American exceptionalism is going away. John Wilsey?s careful history and analysis will therefore prove an important touchstone for discussions of American identity in the decades to come.
- Contents:
- Exceptionalism and civil religion
- The origins of American exceptionalism
- Expansion, slavery, and two American exceptionalisms
- The chosen nation
- The commissioned nation
- The innocent nation
- The nation and her land
- The glorious nation
- Open exceptionalism and civic engagement.
- Notes:
- Description based upon print version of record.
- Includes bibliographical references at the end of each chapters and index.
- Description based on print version record.
- ISBN:
- 9780830899296
- 0830899294
- OCLC:
- 915159481
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