The Foundation of American Values: A Case for Christian Nationalism through Just War Theory
The idea of Christian nationalism often elicits strong reactions, invoking debates about the intersection of faith and governance. Yet, when viewed through the lens of historical context and philosophical frameworks such as Thomas Aquinas' "Just War Theory," a compelling argument emerges for the role of Christian principles in the foundation of American national identity. This perspective maintains that the United States was inherently established on Christian values, which should guide its ethical stance on war and governance.
The Christian Roots of America
From the outset, the founding fathers of the United States drew upon Christian principles when drafting the nation’s foundational documents. The Declaration of Independence references a Creator who endows individuals with unalienable rights, invoking a moral authority that aligns with Christian thought. The Constitution, while a secular document, embodies principles that are harmonious with Christian ethics, including justice, liberty, and the pursuit of the common good.
The power to declare war, vested in Congress, can be interpreted as an extension of this Christian ethos. Understood within this framework, the act of declaring war becomes a serious moral undertaking—one that should reflect the values of the society that empowers the government. This raises the question: What constitutes a just cause for war, and how does Christian thought inform this?
Just War Theory: A Christian Ethical Framework
Thomas Aquinas, a foundational figure in Christian philosophy, articulated the "Just War Theory" in the 13th century, positing that war must meet certain criteria to be considered just. These criteria include:
Just Cause: War should only be waged for a righteous purpose, such as protecting the innocent or defending against aggression.
Legitimate Authority: Only duly constituted public authorities may wage war. In the American context, this authority rests with Congress, reflecting the collective will of the people.
Right Intention: The intention behind the war must be to promote good or avoid evil, not for selfish gain or vengeance.
Probability of Success: There must be a reasonable chance of success in order to justify the costs of war.
Proportionality: The violence used in the war must be proportional to the injury suffered.
Last Resort: All other means of resolving the conflict must be exhausted before resorting to armed conflict.
By applying these principles, the power to declare war becomes not merely a political maneuver but a moral responsibility. The authority vested in Congress, then, becomes a reflection of Christian values, seeking to ensure that war is waged only for the common good and in accordance with divine justice.
The Consequences of Secularism
In recent years, the rise of secular philosophies and ideologies has presented challenges to the foundational Christian values that undergird American society. These alternative worldviews often lack the moral framework that Christianity provides, leading to policies that can be seen as unjust or detrimental to society. For instance, debates around issues like abortion and religious freedoms highlight the tensions that arise when secular ethics clash with Christian morality.
Moreover, the tendency to engage in "profit wars"—military actions justified by economic interests rather than moral imperatives—reflects a deviation from the principles of Just War Theory. When war is pursued without just cause, it not only undermines the legitimacy of governmental authority but also sows discord among citizens who may feel alienated by decisions that contradict their moral beliefs.
A Call to Reaffirm Christian Values
As Christians in America navigate a complex political landscape, the call to reaffirm Christian values within the national narrative becomes essential. Acknowledging the Christian foundation of the United States provides a framework for evaluating current policies and actions. It invites a collective responsibility to ensure that the principles of justice, mercy, and righteousness guide national decisions, especially regarding the use of military force.
In conclusion, Christian nationalism, when grounded in the ethical teachings of Just War Theory and the historical context of American governance, presents a coherent argument for the role of faith in public life. By embracing these principles, we can work towards a society that honors its Christian heritage while addressing the pressing moral issues of our time. The legitimacy of American authority and action lies in its alignment with these foundational values, safeguarding not only the nation’s integrity but also its moral compass in a rapidly changing world.
