Virtue, Public and Private

de James H. Billington, Richard John Neuhaus

"Dialogue" is one of American religion's shopworn terms. Although there is much talk about dialogue, very little of it actually takes place. Religious discourse -- especially about politics and public affairs -- is increasingly polarized; there is much contestation, but little conversation. If truths are to be tested, however, there is no substitute for dialogue. Arising out of conferences sponsored by the Center on Religion & Society in New York City, the Encounter Series presents the dialogue of a diverse group of theologians, ethicists, philosophers, and public policy experts from across the political and religious spectrum. - Back cover.