Divided by Faith summary

Understanding the Racial Divide in American Evangelicalism

In Divided by Faith, Christian Smith and Michael O. Emerson delve into the complex relationship between race and religion in the United States, focusing specifically on the evangelical Christian community. The authors begin by examining the historical roots of racial division within American Christianity, highlighting how the church has often been complicit in perpetuating racial inequality.

They argue that the evangelical emphasis on individualism and personal salvation has led to a 'color-blind' approach to race, where the existence of systemic racism is denied or downplayed. This perspective, they contend, hinders the ability of white evangelicals to recognize and address the structural barriers that perpetuate racial inequality.

Exploring the Racialized Social Structures

Smith and Emerson then move on to explore the racialized social structures that underpin American society. They argue that these structures, which include residential segregation, economic disparities, and unequal access to education and healthcare, contribute to the perpetuation of racial inequality. However, they note that the individualistic worldview of many white evangelicals prevents them from acknowledging the existence and impact of these structures.

The authors also highlight the role of the 'racialization of social problems' within the evangelical community. They argue that instead of attributing social issues to systemic causes, many white evangelicals tend to view them as individual failings, often linked to personal sin or moral shortcomings. This, they argue, further hinders efforts to address racial inequality.

Challenges to Racial Reconciliation

In the next part of Divided by Faith, Smith and Emerson examine the challenges to racial reconciliation within the evangelical community. They argue that the individualistic theology of many white evangelicals leads them to focus on personal relationships and individual conversions as the solution to racial division, rather than addressing systemic issues.

Furthermore, the authors highlight the role of the 'white habitus' – the unconscious racialized worldview held by many white evangelicals. This habitus, they argue, leads to a lack of understanding and empathy towards the experiences of people of color, further hindering efforts towards racial reconciliation.

Hope for Racial Reconciliation

Despite the bleak picture painted in the earlier parts of the book, Smith and Emerson conclude Divided by Faith on a note of cautious optimism. They highlight the efforts of some evangelical leaders and organizations to address racial inequality and promote racial reconciliation. They also note that younger evangelicals, who are more likely to acknowledge the existence of systemic racism, may play a crucial role in shaping the future of evangelicalism.

However, the authors caution that true racial reconciliation within the evangelical community will require a fundamental shift in the way white evangelicals understand and address racial issues. This, they argue, will necessitate a move away from individualistic explanations towards a more systemic understanding of racial inequality.

Final Thoughts on Racial Division

In conclusion, Divided by Faith offers a thought-provoking analysis of the relationship between race and religion within the American evangelical community. The authors argue that the individualistic theology and racialized worldview of many white evangelicals hinder efforts towards racial reconciliation and perpetuate racial inequality.

While acknowledging the challenges, Smith and Emerson also point towards potential pathways for change. They suggest that a deeper understanding of the systemic nature of racial inequality, coupled with a commitment to social justice, may offer a way forward. Ultimately, Divided by Faith serves as a call to action, urging the evangelical community to confront its racial divide and work towards a more just and inclusive future.