Review
"[A] truly valuable (and in many ways definitive) treatment of this contentious subject.... A powerful and sophisticated endorsement of religion as a positive force in American civic life.... A splendidly researched volume that makes an important point within a unified and coherent theoretical framework. It is highly recommended." -- Political Science Quarterly
"A solid book that brings new insights to bear on our knowledge of religion and civic life. It is a must-read for scholars and laypeople interested in this topic and is likely to be a particularly useful resource for undergraduate courses in the social science of religion given that it is highly accessible and contains a wealth of information and facts." -- Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly
"This is a superb book. It not only summarizes the evidence concerning the myriad ways that religion matters to civic life. It suggests new methods for studying the subject and practical ways to support sacred places that serve civic purposes. Well done!" -- John DiIulio Jr., Frederic Fox Leadership Professor of Politics, Religion and Civic Society University of Pennsylvania
"Many have speculated, theorized, and argued about the role of religion in fostering a healthy civic culture. Is it a help or hindrance? Pews, Prayers, and Participation has what this debate has largely lacked--evidence. Anyone interested in religion in the public square should read this book." -- David Campbell, John Cardinal O'Hara, CSC, associate professor of political science, University of Notre Dame
" Pews, Prayers, and Participation is a comprehensive, clear-headed analysis of the relationship between religion and civic responsibility. Drawing on findings from multiple data sources and examining several aspects of civic responsibility, this volume provides a welcome synthesis of knowledge on this complex subject." -- Mark Chaves, professor of sociology, religion, and divinity, Duke University
"A distinguished team of scholars provides compelling evidence for the pivotal contribution of religion to American civic life. Especially striking is the finding that the nature of religious commitment determines the degree of faith's public impact. This will be a major reference work for years to come." -- Allen Hertzke, professor of political science and director of religious studies, University of Oklahoma
"Most debates about the place of religion in politics ultimately boil down to the question of whether religious values can improve the quality of civil society. Asking such a question poses a daunting challenge, but armed with an impressive array of survey data, this team of authors is more than up to the task. Rich, complex, and relevant, this book will be of interest to all who wonder whether religion's role in public life actually makes a difference in the world." -- Laura R. Olson, Clemson University
About the Author
Corwin E. Smidt is director of the Paul Henry Institute and a professor of political science at Calvin College.
Kevin R. den Dulk is associate professor in the Department of Political Science at Grand Valley State University.
James M. Penning is director of the Social Research Center and professor of political science at Calvin College.
Stephen V. Monsma is a research fellow at the Paul Henry Institute at Calvin College and professor emeritus of political science at Pepperdine University. He is the author of many books, including most recently coauthored Faith, Hope and Jobs: Welfare to Work in Los Angeles which is also available from Georgetown University Press.
Douglas L. Koopman is a professor of political science at Calvin College. Koopman coauthored Of Little Faith: The Politics of George W. Bush's Faith-Based Proposals which is also available from Georgetown University Press.
