America's political landscape is experiencing dangerous polarization and fragmentation, with the extremes pulling the country apart. Voices on the left and right clash over different worldviews, definitions of America, and what it means to be an American citizen. The levels of incivility and hostility lead some to invoke the language of a cold civil war or even a looming civil war: one that could split the country in two. Is there any way to step back from this dangerous precipice? Political philosopher Jim Belcher shows that this is not merely a binary opposition between conservativism on the right and liberalism on the left, but also between conflicting visions of order and freedom on both sides. Through his unique quadrant framework, Belcher traces the people and movements in each position, examines their underlying narratives, and articulates their respective contributions and dangers. This quadrant framework not only reveals how polarization divides us but also shows us how to move beyond the right-left stalemate. At the core of the competing visions are the seeds of a new vital center, a robust and surprising model that has the ability to transcend political tribalism and bring America back together again before it is too late.
"As the current pastor of Godspeak Church in Thousand Oaks, California, and the former mayor of the City of Thousand Oaks, I have always viewed my political opponents not as my enemy but as an opportunity. I groped in the darkness to understand how to apply civility in the political arena. Having read Jim Belcher's book Cold Civil War, I now possess a clear understanding of what I longed for but could never fully articulate. American Christianity has abandoned their presence in the public square because politics for most is simply a blood sport. Jim Belcher's book gives a clear road map back to our needed participation in the public square. Civility is the key and wisdom is our strength. I am so grateful personally for this timely work and rejoice wholeheartedly in endorsing it."
Rob McCoy, senior pastor of Godspeak Church and former mayor of Thousand Oaks, California
"Belcher's work on our current state of affairs in cultural discourse, marked by hyperpartisanship, incivility, and political, social, and moral instability, contributes a needed perspective borne of clear, careful, and charitable thinking. It is reflective of deep thought and research that has obviously been ongoing for many years, and I'm certain it will spur further dialogue among scholars in the academy and citizens in the public square for years to come."
John D. Wilsey, authorof American Exceptionalism and Civil Religion, from the foreword
