Purity, Power, and Principled Pragmatism

July 10, 2014 by Patrick Mason

Continued from Page 1

Escaping the stagnation of entrenched ideologies and dueling monologues requires moral imagination and a willingness to engage in dialogue. Fifty years ago we saw a contest between purity and power. Ultimately, however, it was principled pragmatism—emboldened and pushed by radicals but willing to work with and with an eye on transforming the establishment—that won the day. Progress was anything but inevitable, and required considerable struggle and suffering especially by those seeking to mediate between purity and power. But it the end it was the beleaguered middle that proved to mobilize the greatest movement for equality, justice, and reconciliation in our national experience.

When a formula works, there is something to be said for the sequel following suit.

Page: 2 of 2

7/10/2014 4:00:00 AM

2014 Religious Trends

Mormon Women Seek Equality

Mormon

Public Square

Equality

Feminism

gender

History

Leadership

Ritual

Women

Mormonism

more at patheos

John Newton Struggled with Prayer Just Like You and Me

Adrian Warnock

Goldfinger: Bond, Finally Bond

Chase Padusniak

'Superman' Dominates the 'Critics Choice Super Awards' Noms

DeWayne Hamby

Your Writing Makes the Pope Happy

Nicholas Sheehy

About

Patheos Logo Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In Subscription Support

Subscription Support Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In

Follow Patheos