Room for Debate: The Pulpit and the Ballot Box

Caring in All the Wrong Ways

Randy Boyagoda, author, "Richard John Neuhaus"

The identity politicking God talk crowds out a a more substantive involvement of religion in debates about public policy and the future direction of the nation.

Insight Into a Candidate's Worldveiw

Colleen Carroll Campbell, author "My Sisters the Saints"

The real question voters should be asking when they ponder a politician's faith: Does he actually mean it? Does it influence her public and private choices?

An 'American Religion' Transcends Sectarianism

Yehudah Mirsky, Theologian and rabbi

The foundation of our civic life lies in our adherence to universal moral truths because of individual conscience and communal affiliation.

Religious Groups Encourage Religious Campaigns

Anthea Butler, Professor of religious studies

Iowa's Republican caucus season resembles a revival more than a campaign because of the power of conservative Christian organizations.

Have Faith, We'll Have an Atheist President

Penn Jillette, author, "God, No!"

Some day there will be a candidate America loves, and the fact that she or he is atheist will matter as much as Kennedy being Catholic.

Religious Convictions Are Deep and Abiding

Michael Novak, theologian

Like it or not, Americans have always been concerned about freedom of religion, and scrutinized campaigning politicians carefully. They should.