Title: Constitutional faith /
Authors: Levinson, Sanford, 1941-
Publisher: Princeton University Press,
Year: 2011
Subjects: Constitutional history United States; Constitutional law United States; Constitutional law Religious aspects; Constitutional law Moral and ethical aspects United States
Abstract: "This book examines the "constitutional faith" that has, since 1788, been a central component of American "civil religion." By taking seriously the parallel between wholehearted acceptance of the Constitution and religious faith, Sanford Levinson opens up a host of intriguing questions about what it means to be American. While some view the Constitution as the central component of an American religion that serves to unite the social order, Levinson maintains that its sacred role can result in conflict, fragmentation, and even war. To Levinson, the Constitution's value lies in the realm of the discourse it sustains: a uniquely American form of political rhetoric that allows citizens to grapple with every important public issue imaginable."--Pub. desc.
Contents: The "Constitution" in American civil religion -- The moral dimension of constitutional faith -- Loyalty oaths : the creedal affirmations of constitutional faith -- Constitutional "attachment" : identifying the content of one's commitment -- The law school, the faith community, and the professing of law -- Conclusion : adding one's signature to the Constitution.