Democracy Needs Religion

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Hartmut Rosa (Friedrich-Schiller-Universit¿t Jena, Germany; Max Weber Center for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies, Erfurt, Germany) Valentine A. Pakis

Democracy Needs Religion

Hartmut Rosa (Friedrich-Schiller-Universit¿t Jena, Germany; Max Weber Center for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies, Erfurt, Germany), Valentine A. Pakis

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English

Polity Press
29 May 2024

Religion: general; Sociology & anthropology

What role does religion play in modern societies? Is it merely an anachronism that hinders our economic growth? Is it a kind of superstition that people should be left to enjoy in private but should refrain from discussing in public? It is no secret that the Christian churches in Western societies have massive problems – quite apart from the recent scandals. Shrinking congregations are just one sign of their diminishing relevance. But what would happen to democracy if the resonance of religion were to fade entirely?

Leading sociologist Hartmut Rosa addresses this fundamental question in a way that makes us think afresh about religion and the role it plays in our contemporary democratic societies. He argues that religion fosters a culture of dialogue, listening and reflection that allows us to form connections with others and experience the world as meaningful. This, in turn, helps citizens cultivate a democratic sensibility that can serve as an anchor in unstable times. With his characteristic clarity and insight, Rosa analyses our contemporary societies and dares to ponder what would happen if the centuries-old reservoir of wisdom embedded in religion were to be lost in an ultra-modern age.

By: Hartmut Rosa (Friedrich-Schiller-Universit¿t Jena Germany; Max Weber Center for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies Erfurt Germany)
Translated by: Valentine A. Pakis
Imprint: Polity Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
ISBN: 9781509561230
ISBN 10: 1509561234
Pages: 84
Publication Date: 29 May 2024
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Hartmut Rosa is Professor of Sociology at the Institute of Sociology at the Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, and Director of the Max Weber Center for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies at the University of Erfurt, Germany.

Reviews for Democracy Needs Religion

“Hartmut Rosa has become a primary diagnostician of the contemporary predicament. In this short and provocative essay, he shows how religion, broadly understood, can help renew the efficacy of society on which democracy depends.” Craig Calhoun, Arizona State University