Sunday, June 24, 2012

Martin Marty on America's Founding Pluralism

Here. Hat tip Andrew Sullivan.

1 comment:

Angie Van De Merwe said...

Jon,
I disagree that we were a "pluralist" nation. We were primarily a "Christian Protestant nation" as understood by principles of tolerence to dissent, affirming individuals and their rights of conscience.

All religions do not affirm similar "tolerance", such as those with "caste systems" or those that believe "religious authorities"....Although our nation does allow for "religious authorities" in "Church government", we do not believe in a "caste system" at all! We believe that everyone has a right to make his "own way" in life, which is the value of choice and liberty! And "Church government" has authority only over those that choose by free association. There is always a right to leave one's prior associations in our society, whether it be a marriage, or a voluntary organization. Constracts are even breakable under certain rules that protect each parties' rights.