Q&A with Author Bill Donohue
Q: What is the book's thesis?
A: The quest for the good society has intrigued philosophers down through the ages, and although attempts to achieve it have always failed, the teachings of the Catholic Church remain the most cogent and plausible prescription ever formulated. That many of its own teachers, namely the clergy, have not lived up to those teachings is incontestable, but that hardly negates their veracity. The central issue is whether the Church's teachings constitute the right roadmap necessary to achieve the good society, and whether those who faithfully follow them offer exemplary role models toward that end. This book demonstrates that they do.
Q: Why is this book necessary?
A: There has been a rash of negative news in recent years about the Catholic Church, much of which has been warranted. But the picture being painted is nonetheless skewed; there needs to be a corrective, and this book provides the right antidote to the conventional wisdom. The positive contributions that the Catholic Church has historically made--in every aspect of society--merit a serious hearing. This book offers plenty of examples of both the sagacity of the Church's teachings, and the achievements of its adherents.
Q: Who is the book's intended audience?
A: This book will appeal to those practicing Catholics who need to be better informed about the Catholic Church's positive role in history. Catholics who have strayed, or who have become disenchanted, will find this work to be a refreshing reprieve from the steady drumbeat of negative commentary; for this reason alone, young Catholics will be drawn to this volume. And to those who are not Catholic, there is much about Catholicism's rich history that they will encounter for the first time.
Q: What subjects does it cover?
A: The book demonstrates how the cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance can reshape society in the 21st century. The section on prudence discusses the Church's contributions to freedom, focusing on the role that natural law and natural rights have played in the Church's efforts to undermine evils ranging from slavery to abortion. Justice covers the teachings and achievements of the clergy, the religious, and the laity in caring for the needy, the dispossessed, and immigrants; much emphasis is given to the role played by nuns. The Catholic Church's role in combating fascism and communism, particularly the yeoman efforts of Pope Pius XII and Pope John Paul II, respectively, demonstrate how fortitude has been put into practice. The link between temperance and the good society is discussed in relation to so-called victimless crimes, sexuality, marriage, and the family. As such, the book covers political, economic, social, and cultural issues, both historical and contemporary, domestic as well as foreign.
Q: How is this book different from others that address similar topics?
A: This is not a history book, although it covers much historical ground. It is not an intimidating work, nor is it a volume for specialists. To be sure, scholars will find it useful, and it is particularly suitable for classroom use; students will discover much that is new. Its thematic approach--using the cardinal virtues to explain the Church's contributions--is unique. The book does not skirt controversial issues, but it does portray Catholicism in a manner that is at once endearing and enlightening. It is sure to make Catholics proud.
Bill Donohue’s
Why Catholicism Matters offers a fresh and compelling look at how the teachings of the Catholic Church continue to provide the best guide for a healthy, happy society. Using the four cardinal virtues – prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance – as a springboard, this insightful book delves into the issues facing the Church and the broader community, and shows how the Church is at the cutting edge of providing solutions to those issues. Why Catholicism Matters should eliminate the tired stereotype of the Church as being little more than a nagging nay-sayer. On the contrary, it reveals that the Church, and Dr. Donohue himself, give an emphatic
YES! to all that is good, noble and uplifting in the human person.
-Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York
One can rarely finish a commentary by Dr. William Donohue and remain unfazed. In these days of sharp attacks against the Catholic Church and her teachings and values, Bill can be counted on to weigh in, full-blast, and get the attention which our position too often finds ignored in the secular media. In
Why Catholicism Matters, readers of every persuasion will find much to inform, deliberate, and, invariably, take issue with. For that, and for his unapologetic commitment to our Faith, I am personally grateful to Dr. Bill Donohue.
-Edwin Cardinal O'Brien
Why Catholicism Matters is an important contribution at a critical time. As a preeminent voice defending the Church, Dr. Donohue eloquently explains the beauty and importance of Catholic faith. On the canvas of the cardinal virtues, he presents a true and beautiful portrait of the Church that will benefit all people of faith."
-His Eminence Donald Cardinal Wuerl, Archbishop of Washington
TV audiences know Bill Donohue as a scrapper; a vigorous defender of the Catholic faith in his public role as leader of the Catholic League. But he's also a gifted scholar and, as 'Why Catholicism Matters' demonstrates, a thoughtful, vivid and compelling writer. This is a must-read book for anyone who wants to understand the role Catholics need to play in recovering key Christian virtues and renewing American society."
-Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Philadelphia
With religious freedom under assault from many directions, what better moment to be reminded of Catholicism’s wisdom, glories, and multi-faceted contributions to the common good? And who better to remind us than that tireless defender of the Catholic faith, Bill Donohue? Donohue is a treasure and his book is a gem.
-Mary Ann Glendon, Author of The Forum and the Tower: How Scholars and Politicians Have Imagined the World
Bill Donohue has spent much of his life defending the Catholic Church- in his latest work he joyously celebrates it. This tour of the Church's forgotten virtues and the many gifts She has given society reminds us all why the Faith remains the prime mover in our time. It also demonstrates why Donohue matters!
-Raymond Arroyo, New York Times Bestselling Author, host of EWTN's' The World Over.'
