What role should religion play in our politics?
Judging by the statements made by presidential candidates and the media pundits providing minute-by-minute analysis of their comments, Americans want more religion in their politics. But a new poll by Pew Research indicates that a growing number of Americans are concerned about the degree to which politicians and the media have inserted religion into political discourse.
What role should religion play in our politics? The answer isn't easy. Despite the Pew findings, Americans continue to say that religion is an important part of their lives. Even in Oregon - which ranks 41st among states when considering religion's importance to its citizens - 46 percent of Oregonians see religion as essential to their lives. What does that mean for our politics? How do people bring important values into the public arena in a way that contributes to the greater good? Join us as we take a look at the Pew Research findings.
Jo Ann Hardesty is a former state legislator, former director of Oregon Action and past board president of Portland Community Media, as well as a long-time leader in the struggle for racial and economic justice. Dave Mazza is a journalist and former editor of The Portland Alliance who has covered and been involved in Portland's civil rights, environmental, labor and peace movements for over 20 years.
Join Jo Ann and Dave every Thursday as they bring you guests and conversations on issues that are important to you. Support Voices from the Edge by becoming a KBOO member (just click the "tip jar" in the upper right-hand corner on KBOO's homepage to find out how) or consider becoming an underwriter of this program (contact KBOO's development director for details).
Co-Hosts: Jo Ann Hardesty and Dave Mazza
Producers: Dave Mazza and Jo Ann Hardesty
Program Engineer: Steve Nassar
Audio Editor: Alicia Olson
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