On God's Side, November 26, 2013

In Chapter 9, Wallis continues his discussion of practices for the common good. He begins by providing a theology of democracy based on the imago dei, the assertion in the book of Genesis that human beings are created in the image of God. After criticizing the movement to politicize voting, he then argues that the last great barrier to democracy is money. Were you surprised to learn that running for political office is more expensive in the U.S. than anywhere else in the world (188)? Do you agree with his assessment that Citizens United "was one of the most disastrous judicial decisions in American history?" Do you agree with his argument that our political process is dominated by the rich who thereby corrupt democracy (191)? If you accept his argument that our system desperately needs reform, what kind of a movement would it take to bring about such reform?

On God's Side, November 14, 2013

In Chapter 8, Wallis begins discussing specific practices for addressing the common good. Did you find his characterization of conservatives and liberals convincing? Where would you place yourself? What has been more important in your life, personal morality or working for social justice? Or have the ethics of personal and social responsibility been complementary for you? Can you give any specific examples of how this has played out in your own life? Did you find Wallis's suggestions about strengthening marriage and ending poverty convincing? Would personally sign on to the Covenant for Civility?