The Church in Politics—americans Beware!

A critical lecture delivered in the early 20th century that examines the intersection of religion and politics in America, particularly the influence of the Catholic Church. This publication addresses contemporary concerns about the role of religious institutions in governance, arguing against the compatibility of a divinely anchored church and a secular government. In this lecture, Mangasarian argues that the church fundamentally opposes the principles laid out in the Constitution, which neither acknowledges nor prioritizes religious interests. He draws historical parallels with France's turbulent relationship between church and state, illustrating how the church, while appearing to support republican values, ultimately prioritizes its own authority, often at the expense of civil liberties and national interests. Mangasarian warns that similar outcomes could occur in America should a strong Catholic presence infiltrate political spheres, emphasizing that the church's adherence to divine law could subvert human rights and democracy. The overarching message serves as a cautionary note for Americans to be vigilant about the potential implications of allowing religious institutions to influence political decisions.