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Cover of Introduction to Political Science

Introduction to Political Science

A Christian Perspective

  • Ethics, Culture & Social Issues
  • Publisher: IVP Academic (InterVarsity Press)
  • Published: 2017

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Publisher's Description

Evangelical Christian Publishers Association Top Shelf Book Cover Award 2017 We are political beings and our lives are shaped by political institutions. Being a good citizen involves understanding these institutions and how they can be used to promote the common good. Christians further believe these institutions are integral to God's created order, intended by God to promote justice and help people flourish. Christians thus have good reason to beinformed about political science as they seek to be ambassadors for Christ in a diverse society. Introduction to Political Science: A Christian Perspective is an accessible guide to the study of politics. Written for students who may not haveany prior knowledge about political life, this textbook provides a nonpartisan introduction to the key concepts, institutions, and policies that shape politics today. Fred Van Geest draws on a variety of sources and examples to present a balanced Christian perspective on political science. Christians, he argues, are called to engage in political action in order to advance public justice, even though full shalom is ultimately the work of God alone. IVP Instructor Resources include an Instructor's Guide and Student's Study Guide.


Endorsements (3)

“For centuries, Christians have been divided over whether government has a legitimate and positive role to play within the unfolding kingdom of God. Professor Van Geest has provided us with an excellent introductory-level textbook based on the biblical conviction that political life is indeed an appropriate avenue of service to God and neighbor.”

David T. Koyzis

“This volume provides an introduction to the study of politics, written from a Christian perspective and highlighting how a Christian understanding of a particular topic at hand may complement, or stand in contrast to, other commonly held understandings of that topic. In so doing, the study fosters serious Christian reflection on the nature of the political life, the structure and operation of governmental institutions, and the place of politics within the life of Christian citizens and the Christian community.”

Corwin E. Smidt

“A singular contribution to the discipline and to Christian scholarship. Van Geest organizes the work so as to integrate Christian perspective seamlessly into widely recognized ways of engaging the discipline, moving from foundational values to institutions, policy, and international relations. The book may thus be read with benefit by those inside and outside the Christian community. But Van Geest doesn't presume the positive influence of all Christian political initiatives, as one might at first presume, given his own commitments. Instead, he invites the reader into a well-informed consideration of the arguments for and against various kinds of Christian political activism. In the world of political science textbooks, this one stands out because it stands essentially alone, unapologetically Christian. It is a well-researched resource that will benefit many a student of political science.”

Timothy Sherratt

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