Jerome E. Copulsky, a research fellow at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University, recently joined Anna Gat of Interintellect for an In-Person Salon. The discussion centered on Copulsky's latest book, "American Heretics: Religious Adversaries of Liberal Order," delving into the historical complexities of church-state separation in the United States. The event provided a platform for an in-depth conversation on the nation's foundational principles and the role of religion in public life.
Published by Yale University Press in October 2024, Copulsky's book challenges conventional narratives by examining religious thinkers who, throughout American history, have contested the nation's liberal order and its church-state arrangement. It explores figures who believed that democratic values were not aligned with Christian teachings, arguing that religion should guide political life rather than be separated from the state. The work highlights the persistence of these groups, suggesting that America's church-state problem remains unresolved.
During the salon, Copulsky referenced a notable observation by Alexander Hamilton regarding the U.S. Constitution. Interintellect's tweet quoted Copulsky stating:
"There's a famous line by Alexander Hamilton: the reason why the Constitution doesn't appeal to God is that they forgot it." This quote underscores a central theme of the book: the deliberate absence of a specific reference to God in the Constitution, despite the Founders' personal religious beliefs, and how this has been a point of contention for various religious adversaries of liberal order.
Interintellect, founded by Anna Gat, aims to reinvent the traditional French salon for the 21st century, fostering "fearless conversations with friendly people" on a wide range of intellectual topics. The platform hosts both online and in-person events, providing a unique space for deep discussions and the exchange of ideas among a global community. This salon exemplifies Interintellect's mission to engage with significant historical and contemporary issues through thoughtful dialogue.
The conversation with Copulsky offered valuable insights into the ongoing debates surrounding religion's role in American public life and the historical roots of contemporary movements advocating for a "Christian America." By exploring these "heretical ideas," the book and the salon contribute to a deeper understanding of the virtues and fragilities of America's liberal democracy and its enduring church-state challenges. The full conversation is available online for further engagement.