Segment 5: Niebuhr and Engagement in the World

Listening Comprehension/Critical Thinking Questions

Read the following questions, then listen to the fifth segment of "Moral Man and Immoral Society" to find the answers.
Segment 5: Niebuhr and Engagement in the World

1. Niebuhr wrote: "Religion is more frequently a source of confusion than of light in the political realm. The tendency to equate our political with our Christian convictions causes politics to generate idolatry"
   
   
    • What do you think Niebuhr means by this?
   
   Answers will vary.
   
   
   
    • What main points does Ms. Elshtain make in responding to this statement?
   
   Politics can be one good among many, and if we assume perfection in our politics, it is equated with idolatry.
   
   

   Niebuhr wrote: "Politics is not an ultimate value, it is a relative value. That we should not assume that politics is the ultimate authority. We can never achieve such a standard."
   
   

    • What did he mean by that?
   
   It is impossible for politics to be the ultimate guide of moral values. Representative democracy is not equal to moral authority.
   
   

    • How does this idea help you think about contemporary political life in America?
   
   Answers will vary.
   
   

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Click on these links to find further instructional ideas and study guides for the material on the Speaking of Faith Web site.

Segment 1: Introduction to Niebuhr Listen (7:02)

Segment 2: Conversation with Mr. Richard Wightman Fox Listen (12:38)

Segment 3: Niebuhr on American Society Listen (2:15)

Segment 4: Niebuhr on War Listen (6:25)

Segment 6: Inspiration for Reconciliation and the Need for Tension Listen (7:20)