In "Why I Am Not a Secularist," William E. Connolly embarks on a profound critique of conventional secularism's shortcomings, arguing that its rigid separation between the religious and the political spheres does more harm than good in a pluralistic society. Connolly, a distinguished political theorist, sees secularism's strict boundaries as stifling the very diversity and freedom it aims to protect. Through a meticulous examination of contemporary political issues—ranging from capital punishment to euthanasia—he demonstrates how secularism's insistence on a narrow version of public reason fails to accommodate the rich tapestry of beliefs and values that animate public life. With sharp insight, Connolly challenges the reader to reconsider the place of religion in public discourse, advocating for a more inclusive approach that values the contributions of both believers and nonbelievers. Building on this critique, Connolly proposes a radical reimagining of public life that goes beyond the secularist paradigm. He envisions a political culture where "the visceral register" of public life—a realm traditionally obscured by secularism—is acknowledged and celebrated, allowing for a deeper engagement with the ethical and emotional dimensions that underpin political action. By weaving together theoretical rigor with practical considerations, Connolly crafts an ethos of engagement that embraces the complexities of contemporary politics. His call for a reinvigorated public sphere, one that honors diversity while fostering selective collaboration between religious and nonreligious perspectives, offers a compelling blueprint for a more generous and responsive political culture. "Why I Am Not a Secularist" is not only a critique but a hopeful vision of what public life could be, inviting us to reimagine the boundaries between the sacred and the secular in ways that enrich our collective existence.
1
recommendations
recommendation
Similar recommendations
View allThis site is part of Amazon’s Associates Program. Purchasing books recommended by successful individuals through my links earns us a small commission, helping keep the site running, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our site!