American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us

Based on two of the most comprehensive surveys ever conducted on religion and public life in America, plus in-depth studies of diverse congregations - among them a Mormon congregation, a reform Jewish synagogue, and an African-American congregation - American Grace examines the impact of religion on American life and how that impact has changed - often in surprising ways. From abortion to gay marriage to feminism, American Grace shows how religion has influenced politics in America - and vice versa. The discoveries are often unexpected: The most politicized churches tend to be liberal, not conservative, congregations. Most Americans marry outside their religion, and nearly half change their religion during their lifetime. This is a fascinating and revelatory book.