Social problems, public policy, the church and the common good
From professional pundits to casual observers, there are deep concerns about the state of American society and profound doubts about its future. Political cynicism is ascendant - and yet, the desire for politicians to "do something" remains. What role can public policy have in addressing t...
Main Author: | |
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Format: | Print Article |
Language: | English |
Check availability: | HBZ Gateway |
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Fernleihe: | Fernleihe für die Fachinformationsdienste |
Published: |
Institute for Interdisciplinary Research
[2016]
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In: |
Journal of interdisciplinary studies
Year: 2016, Volume: 28, Issue: 1/2, Pages: 41-62 |
RelBib Classification: | CG Christianity and Politics CH Christianity and Society KAJ Church history 1914-; recent history KBQ North America |
Summary: | From professional pundits to casual observers, there are deep concerns about the state of American society and profound doubts about its future. Political cynicism is ascendant - and yet, the desire for politicians to "do something" remains. What role can public policy have in addressing the largest social problems and their causes? And beyond public policy, what are the potentially effective means in terms of social institutions, including the Church? Although public policy offers some promise, its usefulness is generally exaggerated. Its costs are typically subtle and often ignored. Knowledge of consequences and trade-offs is insufficient, and the motives of political agents are less than pure. And many dilemmas, by their nature, cannot be ably addressed by politics and policy. In contrast, a resurgence in civil society-particularly the Church - holds more promise. Even in a time of potential "exile," the Church is called to pursue the holistic welfare of society and enhance the common good. |
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ISSN: | 0890-0132 |
Contains: | Enthalten in: Journal of interdisciplinary studies
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