Radical Conversion

""Though Duncan draws on a rich array of disciplines and buttresses his assertions with sources both erudite and colloquial, his central thesis is entirely political and of immense value to all readers regardless of belief. Deeply incisive, searing, and prophetic, Duncan does something impossible and necessary: he calls the reader into a vision of social responsibility that is both primordial and progressive, both recondite and radical, both a repeal and a revolution."" --Kathleen Glenister Roberts, professor, Duquesne University

""Political theorist Christopher Duncan makes a compelling case for the future of democracy that depends on foundational themes found in the Judeo-Christian tradition, especially twentieth-century Catholic social teaching. Instead of continuing on the path of a materialistic and individualistic neoliberalism, he argues for a polity that defends the dignity of every person, the care for the marginalized, and a commitment to the common good built upon a non-theocratic but religiously open government that welcomes people both secular and religious. His thesis, bold and provocative, calls for a radical conversion in American society."" --James L. Heft, SM, founder and president emeritus of the Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies

""The radical conversion called for by Christopher Duncan requires unmasking the limits of individualism and uplifting personalism. As an advocate of Christian citizenship in the public sphere, Duncan challenges 'a liberal-capitalistic-possessive individualistic discourse' that excludes a politics of love. Duncan highlights Catholicism's oppositional stance toward an increasing embrace of neoliberalism that underscores individual rights, ignoring our communal commitments to one another. This work is a must-read for those in religious communication."" --Ronald C. Arnett, author of Communication Ethics and Tenacious Hope

""Christopher Duncan explores and enriches the languages we use in the civil and political life of our American democratic polity. He constructs a narrative of the American liberal tradition that enables the reader to appreciate both the ways this tradition often enhances human well-being and at the same time how 'possessive individualism' is now reforming this narrative so it is no longer inclusive of the well-being of all. Duncan introduces a second narrative, a narrative of 'agape' of radical inclusive love, as it is embodied in Catholic social tradition. Bringing these two narratives into critical dialogue, Duncan challenges people of faith, Catholics in particular, to a radical conversion in which they are called to be catalysts and partners in tending and nurturing a language of public discourse that enables public conversations to move toward the common good of all."" --Raymond Fitz, SM, president emeritus and professor, University of Dayton