Faith-Based Policy A Litmus Test for Understanding Contemporary America [Paperback]

John Chandler is an essential, independent voice in the discussion of faith-based policy. This book is a must read for policy-makers, academics, and citizens. There is hope here for a future beyond our contemporary polarization.John Chandlers Faith-Based Policy: A Litmus Test for Understanding Contemporary America, rather than condemning or praising, is devoted to showing how this policy development illumines the role of religion in American public life. This is an unusual and valuable addition to the small number of books on this important policy that now spans three administrations and both parties. His comments on the connection between faith and public affairs for President Obama are provocative.?One does not have to agree with all of the analyses and conclusions of Chandler to appreciate his skillful placing of 'faith-based initiatives' into their theoretical context. A must read for all students of faith-based organizations'?evolving role?in the?public policy world.Each of three consecutive U.S. Presidents, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, have initiated or expanded faith-based offices and programs. In this important, insightful, and engaging book, John Chandler adroitly describes, analyzes, and assesses the politics, policies, and personalities associated with this latest chapter in the history of church-state relations in America.?Agree or not with Chandler's main ideas and interpretations, this is easily among the best, most erudite, and most even-handed books on the subject yet written.[The author] offers insights into the development of charitable choice and other faith-based policies in the United States. His vantage point 'from afar' offers a helpful, critical distance from the inner workings of the policy process. . . .This book offers . . . important insights.John Chandlers Faith-Based Policy: A Litmus Test for Understanding Contemporary America provides insight into the faith-based policies of George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Chals8