American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us
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Examines the impact of religion on American life and how that impact has changed in the last half-century.
Book Summary
American Grace by Robert D. Putnam and David E. Campbell explores how religion both divides and unites Americans. Drawing on extensive survey data, it traces the dramatic shifts in American religiosity over the past fifty years, from the rise of the religious right to growing secularism and religious pluralism. The book offers a nuanced, data-driven analysis of how Americans live with religious difference and why religion remains a powerful force in public life.
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About American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us
In American Grace, Robert D. Putnam and David E. Campbell examine the changing role of religion in American society since the 1950s. Using a wealth of survey data, they document the rise of the religious right, the growth of secularism, and the increasing acceptance of religious diversity. The authors argue that despite deep divisions, Americans are remarkably tolerant of other faiths, largely because of the 'Aunt Susan' phenomenon—personal connections to people of different beliefs. They also explore how religion influences civic engagement, politics, and family life. The book provides a comprehensive, balanced, and often surprising portrait of American religion, showing how it both fractures and binds the nation.
Who should read American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us?
This book is essential for anyone interested in American religion, politics, or sociology. Students and scholars of religion, political science, and sociology will find the data and analysis invaluable. Journalists, policymakers, and clergy seeking to understand the religious landscape will benefit from its insights. General readers curious about how religion shapes American life—and why Americans are simultaneously devout and tolerant—will find it accessible and enlightening. It is also suitable for book clubs and discussion groups.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Offers a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of American religion over five decades.
- ✓ Presents a balanced perspective on both the divisive and unifying aspects of religion.
- ✓ Introduces memorable concepts like the 'Aunt Susan' phenomenon to explain religious tolerance.
- ✓ Written in an accessible style despite its scholarly rigor.
- ✓ Provides historical context for contemporary debates about religion and politics.
Cons
- ✗ Some readers may find the extensive statistical data dense and slow-going.
- ✗ The book's focus on survey data may oversimplify complex religious experiences.
- ✗ Published in 2010, it does not cover more recent developments in American religion.
- ✗ Critics argue it underplays the role of race and ethnicity in religious life.
- ✗ The authors' optimistic tone about religious tolerance may seem idealistic to some.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the main thesis of American Grace?
The main thesis is that American religion is both deeply divisive and remarkably unifying. The authors argue that Americans are increasingly polarized along religious lines, yet they are also highly tolerant of other faiths, largely due to personal relationships with people of different beliefs.
What is the 'Aunt Susan' phenomenon?
The 'Aunt Susan' phenomenon refers to the finding that Americans are much more likely to accept people of other faiths if they have a close personal relationship with someone of that faith—like a beloved aunt. These personal connections break down stereotypes and foster tolerance.
Is American Grace based on original research?
Yes, the book draws on extensive original survey data, including the Faith Matters surveys, which the authors conducted. It also incorporates historical analysis and interviews to provide a comprehensive picture of American religion.
Who are the authors?
Robert D. Putnam is a political scientist known for Bowling Alone, and David E. Campbell is a political scientist at the University of Notre Dame. Together they bring expertise in social capital, religion, and politics.
Does the book cover all religious groups in America?
The book covers a wide range of religious groups, including mainline Protestants, evangelicals, Catholics, Jews, Muslims, and the non-religious. It examines both the diversity within American religion and the commonalities across groups.
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