From Publishers Weekly
In a highly personal exposition of Christian faith and its political relevance, political scientist Tinder urges Christians to take a "prophetic stance." This involves a questioning attitude toward all forms of established authority, plus a recognition that "Christianity in essence is not conservative." Tinder, professor at the University of Massachusetts, lambasts liberation theology as "morally naive"; and is wary of social or political reforms that aim at "equalization" while neglecting the broader ills of mass society such as the breakdown of community and pervasive alienation. Starting from the premise that humanity is a fallen race, profoundly selfish and destructive, he attempts to chart a course between passive cynicism and revolutionary idealism. His challenging inquiry will stimulate Christians and non-Christians alike. First serial to Atlantic. Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.