The Classical and Christian Origins of American Politics

There has been a considerable amount of literature in the last 70 years claiming that the American founders were steeped in modern thought. This study runs counter to that tradition, arguing that the founders of America were deeply indebted to the classical Christian natural-law tradition for their fundamental theological, moral, and political outlook. Evidence for this thesis is found in case studies of such leading American founders as Thomas Jefferson and James Wilson, the pamphlet debates, the founders' invocation of providence during the revolution, and their understanding of popular sovereignty. The authors go on to reflect on how the founders' political thought contained within it the resources that undermined, in principle, the institution of slavery, and explores the relevance of the founders' political theology for contemporary politics. This timely, important book makes a significant contribution to the scholarly debate over whether the American founding is compatible with traditional Christianity.

Author: Kody W. Cooper, Justin Buckley Dyer
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 12/15/2022
Pages: 225
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.25lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.75d
ISBN: 9781009098113

Review Citation(s):
Choice 09/01/2023

About the Author
Cooper, Kody W.: - Kody W. Cooper is UC Foundation Assistant Professor of Political Science and Public Service at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga.Dyer, Justin Buckley: - Justin Buckley Dyer is Professor of Government and Executive Director of the Civitas Institute at The University of Texas at Austin.

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