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Church Groups Trying To Bridge America's Divisions

Jorge Luis Borges

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Published in Elusive Togetherness: Church Groups Trying To Bridge America S Divisions (Princeton Studies In Cultural Sociology 24)

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Elusive Togetherness: Church Groups Trying to Bridge America s Divisions (Princeton Studies in Cultural Sociology 24)

Elusive Togetherness: Church Groups Trying to Bridge America's Divisions (Princeton Studies in Cultural Sociology Book 24)

by Paul Lichterman

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	344 pages

Church groups are playing a vital role in trying to bridge the deep divisions that are tearing America apart. A new study from Princeton University finds that these groups are providing a space for people to come together and talk about their differences, and are helping to build relationships that can break down barriers.

The study, published in the journal Cultural Sociology, found that church groups are particularly effective at bringing together people from different backgrounds and perspectives. This is because churches provide a neutral space where people can feel safe and comfortable talking about their beliefs and values.

"Church groups offer a unique opportunity for people to come together and have conversations that they might not otherwise have," said lead author Robert Wuthnow, a professor of sociology at Princeton University. "These conversations can help to build understanding and empathy, and can lay the groundwork for more constructive relationships between people from different backgrounds."

The study found that church groups are particularly effective at bridging the political divide in America. In recent years, the country has become increasingly polarized, with Republicans and Democrats becoming more and more divided on a wide range of issues. This polarization has made it difficult for people to have constructive conversations about politics.

"Church groups can provide a space where people can talk about politics in a respectful and open-minded way," said Wuthnow. "This can help to break down the barriers that have been built up between people of different political persuasions."

The study also found that church groups are effective at bridging the racial divide in America. In recent years, the country has seen a rise in racial tensions. This tension has been fueled by a number of factors, including the police shootings of unarmed black men and the rise of white nationalism.

"Church groups can provide a space where people of different races can come together and get to know each other," said Wuthnow. "This can help to break down the stereotypes and prejudices that have been built up over time."

The study's findings suggest that church groups can play a vital role in healing the divisions that are tearing America apart. These groups provide a space where people can come together and talk about their differences, and are helping to build relationships that can break down barriers.

Elusive Togetherness: Church Groups Trying to Bridge America's Divisions (Princeton Studies in Cultural Sociology Book 24)

by Paul Lichterman

4.8 out of 5