POLIS 121: Introduction to Politics & International Studies

Calvinism and Democracy explores the influence of Calvinism on democratic theory and practice.

Both democracy and Christian faith, this 2004 book shows, call all Christians to make their beliefs effective in politics. But the discussion here differs from others. Most have trouble relating religion to democratic discussion and debate because they assume that religious differences cannot be publicly debated. Against this majority view, this book argues that Christian faith belongs in politics because it shares with democracy a full commitment to rational pursuit of the truth.

In this important study John de Gruchy examines the historic and contemporary roles of Christianity in the development of democracy. He traces the gestation of modern democracy in medieval Christendom, and then describes the virtual breakdown of the relationship as democracy becomes the polity of modernity.

Challenging a widespread belief that religious people are politically intolerant, Marie Ann Eisenstein offers compelling evidence to the contrary. In this surprising and significant book, she thoroughly re-examines previous studies and presents new research to support her argument that there is, in fact, a positive correlation between religious belief and practice and political tolerance.

This book examines Calvin's contribution to the rise and development of primarily the Genevan, British, and American political traditions. To show this, Hall traces the development of Calvinist political thought from its roots in Augustine and Calvin's own life, to its expression in the Institutes, and finally, to the way his followers appropriated his ideas into public policy especially in Britain and America.

The Bible has been fundamental to the entire constitution of international order. Not only human security and peacekeeping, but foreign aid, environmental stewardship, and other such key issues have all been rooted in the biblical ideas of justice. The purpose of this publication is therefore to highlight the role that the Bible can play in international affairs and governance.