The World Motivation
Religion looms as large as an elephant in the United States, to the point that being nonreligious is about the biggest handicap a politician running for office can have, bigger than being gay, unmarried, thrice married, or black.
Religion looms as large as an elephant in the United States, to the point that being nonreligious is about the biggest handicap a politician running for office can have, bigger than being gay, unmarried, thrice married, or black.
Frans de Waal highlights the significant influence of religion in American politics, noting that being nonreligious can be a severe disadvantage for political candidates. This observation underscores the pervasive role that religious affiliation plays in shaping public perception and trust, often overshadowing other factors such as race or personal history. De Waal’s comment suggests that religious identity is deeply embedded in the fabric of American society, shaping not just personal beliefs but also political dynamics.
In practical terms, this can be observed during election campaigns where candidates often emphasize their religious beliefs to appeal to voters. For instance, politicians may make public displays of faith or reference their religious convictions to connect with audiences, indicating how integral religion is to political success. De Waal's insight serves as a reminder of the powerful intersection between faith and governance in shaping societal norms.