How does religion influence politicians?

[Sushi]

I am starting on the topic subject for a research project. While I know some religiously-oriented ppolitical shenanigans (abstinence-only education, intelligent design, stem-cell research funding cut off, ...) I am still generally in the dark about the subject as a whole.

What can I find good information on this subject (books, etc) and what else is there to know?

 

[Kopji]

I think its mostly that they call religious leaders up to see what they think, before making big decisions. Some religious leaders have boasted about this, and it has not been denied by anyone.

Pat Robertson used to be big on the list but he seems to have fallen out of favor. James Dobson is still big. Not sure if he is one of the ones that Rove recently meant by the term "whacko" though. Hard to tell.

Arizona is unfortunate enough to be home of something called
"The Center for Arizona Policy" http://www.azpolicy.org/

They are very good at walking the 501 3 c line and are fully tax deductible.

 

[peptoabysmal]

It is like many other forms of lobbying. Lobbying needs something to offer as reward for passing laws favorable to the lobbyist's concerns. Usually this consists of campaign contributions or votes.

E.g.; A religious organization wants laws passed barring gays from marriage and offers votes of the faithful as reward.

 

[Darth Rotor]

How does religion influence politicians?

In some cases, it makes them wear curious looking hats.

DR

 

[Mephisto]

It is like many other forms of lobbying. Lobbying needs something to offer as reward for passing laws favorable to the lobbyist's concerns. Usually this consists of campaign contributions or votes.

E.g.; A religious organization wants laws passed barring gays from marriage and offers votes of the faithful as reward.

And in return they get:

http://www.internationalskeptics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=66111



Actually, I believe that religion only affects politicians by increasing their tendency to become "power whores," thereby allowing them to pander for profit among the faithful by promising them whatever.

 

[andyandy]

googled.....

How Does Religion Influence Politics?
by James D. Torr http://www.powells.com/biblio?isbn=0737734264

Synopsis:
One of the biggest divisions in American politics is between religious and secular voters. Viewpoints in this anthology offer a range of opinions on the role of religion in politics, and how religious views shape specific issues such as same-sex marriage and stem cell research.
Synopsis:
Essays cover opposing viewpoints on the role of religion in politics, discussing such topics as the separation of church and state, the influence of the Religious Right, and the polarization of religious and secular voters.

Does Religion Even Matter Anymore in Politics?

All Things Considered, September 24, 2006 · Virginia Senate candidate George Allen was recently informed of his Jewish roots. Host Debbie Elliott explores voter attitudes towards Jews and whether a candidate's religious background even matters anymore.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6135347 (soundfile)

no idea if they're of any use or not

 

[Skeptic Ginger]

I do believe it is a two way street in the case of the Bush government.

Try this site: White House Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives.

This is where Bush rewards more of his cronies and buys a few preachers who can influence the votes of large congregations.

Pat Robertson gets millions of our tax dollars now. Gee, what a coincidence he promotes Bush and bashes liberals on the 700 Club.

Pat gets paid and warns of the narcotic tax dollar. How nicely hypocritical of him.

Then there is the weapon of an IRS audit of your churche's tax exempt status if you go against the Bushies.

"Will you have the carrot or stick?", said the politician to the preacher.
"I do believe I'll have that carrot and while you're at it could you take a look at the local school science curriculum for us as well? They have upset little Johnny telling him the Bible isn't true," replied the preacher. "Perhaps a more favorable judge would help as well."