Religion and Politics in the United States [Paperback]

Kenneth D. Wald (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0742518418 | ISBN-13: 978-0742518414 | Publication Date: January 14, 2003 | Edition: Fourth Edition

The leading book in its field, Religion and Politics in the United States is a comprehensive guide to the political mobilization of religious organizations, their impact at the ballot box, and their influence on the framing of national agendas. Stressing the diversity of religion in the United States and its consequences for American political life, author Kenneth D. Wald argues that no one can fully understand how America governs itself without recognizing the profound influence of religion.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Ken Wald set the standard for religion and politics texts with the first edition of this book. The new edition continues and improves upon that tradition, combining a strong theoretical framework with the latest scholarship. (Clarke Cochran )

The anxiously awaited fourth edition continues to develop and enhance the most comprehensive, balanced, and theoretical textbook on religion and politics in the United States. Professor Wald commands a wide range of data resources, many very recent, but this information is always placed in the framework of arguments and themes, making this an excellent teaching text. Students, as well as the general reader, become engaged in informed discussions of issues that are crucial for our time. (Stuart A. Lilie, professor emeritus )

This new edition of Religion and Politics in the United States provides one of the most concise, thorough, and up-to-date analyses of religion's role in American politics and society. It serves as a gateway to a deeper understanding of important topics in religion and politics, including such hotly debated questions as religion's impact on political identities, the importance of religious beliefs in framing political issues, how the religious commitments of groups and individuals influence the nation's cultural wars, and how religious loyalties shape political values. No other text provides such a wide-ranging analysis of religion's impact on political behavior in the United States. This edition is essential reading for courses on religion and politics and on American political behavior more generally. (Harris, Fredrick C. )

Religion and Politics in the United States provides an insightful and comprehensive look at the role that religious faith and religious institutions play in American politics. This book is the definitive source if you want to understand how religion has shaped our political culture, the place of religious issues in public policy making, and the impact of religious affiliation and groups on elections. (Greenberg, Anna )

Ken Wald not only shows how religious beliefs, social identities, group interests, and coalitional needs condition electoral outcomes, but portrays the very real limits—constitutional and political—of religious effects on American politics and policy. Students will find the writing succinct and accessible. (Leege, David C. )

I have been waiting for the fourth edition of Religion and Politics in the United States for some time. It is rare to find a text that is so comprehensive and at the same time so readable. My students have always enjoyed the book, and I also keep it on a nearby bookshelf to consult. This is a great source for those who need an introduction to religion and politics, and also for those who study the topic. (Wilcox, Clyde )

Wald's treatment of the questions surrounding religion and politics in the United States is excellent. The book would be excellent for an upper level or graduate course that introduces students to the complexities of religion and politics in a free democracy. (H-Net )

As a starting point for the subject of religion and politics, this book will serve its readers well. Good textbooks are crucial in education, and this one has proven to be useful. We can look forward to future editions. (Journal Of Church And State )

About the Author

Kenneth D. Wald is professor of political science and director of the Center for Jewish Studies at the University of Florida, Gainesville.

Product Details

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers; Fourth Edition edition (January 14, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0742518418
• ISBN-13: 978-0742518414
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 5.9 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,279,972 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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