Questions for discussion  

Let's discuss the following questions during our round table:

1. Religion plays a significant role in American politics, the most striking example being the influence of the evangelicals. One might argue however that it is also the other way round, politics change the role of religion. It no longer functions as a confessional adherence, but as an ideological position. It is no longer about conviction, but about sheer power. Hence, regardless of the outcome of the elections, this transformation is one that is there to stay and that will influence the concept of religion not only in the US but no less in Europe

2. The divide and polarization one can observe in the US, is a divide supported by religious traditions. Not only by the evangelicals, but also by more progressive churches. Taking such a political stance, implies an infringement of the separation between state and church. Are we heading to a time that, in a certain way, returns to the pre-Enlightenment era, including a preferred religion or even a state religion, though in an adapted form (‘our country is based on Christian values’)?

3. Though churches may feel dragged into the increasing polarization, some of them also try to bridge the divide and to contribute to a less polarized climate, e.g. by supporting the BLM movement. The same goes in Europe where some churches try to counter the polarization between Christians and Muslims. Can churches still contribute to countering the widening social gap or does any societal involvement also imply a politicization of belief?