Faith and War
by David E. Settje
"How Christians Debated the Cold and Vietnam Wars"
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Faith and War by David E. Settje
Details
Perspective:
Researcher
Biography:
No
Page Count:
244
Published Date:
2011
ISBN13:
9780814741337
Description
Main Themes and Topics
"Faith and War" by David E. Settje delves into the intricate relationship between Christianity and American foreign policy during the critical years of the Cold and Vietnam Wars, spanning 1964 to 1975. The book’s key exploration centers around how diverse Christian theologies influenced America's stance and public opinion on international affairs during these tumultuous times. By examining a range of Christian denominations and their respective publications, such as the evangelical "Christianity Today" and mainline Protestant "Christian Century," the book showcases the varying perspectives within the Christian community. The narrative demonstrates how these religious viewpoints were interwoven with political and foreign policy debates, highlighting Christianity's role in both mirroring and shaping public discourse.
Writing Style and Tone
David E. Settje employs a scholarly yet accessible approach in "Faith and War," making the complex interplay between faith and politics understandable to a broad audience. The language is academic but does not alienate the lay reader, offering clear and comprehensive insights into the nuanced positions held by different Christian groups. Settje's prose is meticulous and evidence-based, drawing on religious publications and historical documents to support his narrative. This measured tone underscores the book's analytical rigor while maintaining reader engagement through lucid explanations and well-structured arguments.
Brief Summary
"Faith and War" investigates how American Christianity influenced and responded to foreign policy debates during the Cold and Vietnam Wars. Settje's research reveals the diversity of opinions within the Christian community — from evangelical to mainline Protestant, Catholic to African Methodist Episcopal — and how these religious beliefs intersected with notions of nationalism and international relations. By exploring various periodicals and religious platforms, Settje provides a comprehensive picture of how religion sought to shape public opinion and policy-making in America during a period marked by global unrest and ideological conflict.
