Blogs

Voting: A Brief History of Theology and Democracy

            Democracy is a concept that many of us take for granted, especially those of us who live in the West. Each year the Economist releases their democracy index that provides a full report on the state of democracy around the world. According to their 2023 report, 45.4% of the world live in a democracy, and 39.4% live under some form of authoritarian rule. They conclude that only 7.8% of people live in a full democracy after the US was downgraded to a flawed democracy in 2016.

Subsidiarity and Local Politics

In last week’s Christian Political Action podcast I spoke to Revd Luke Larner about his experience as a priest in the Church of England, practical theology, trade unions, and more. While speaking to Luke about his work in the Church as a priest, his PhD, and trade unions, the thing that stood out to me was his emphasis on the practical and the local. I agree with Luke that much of theology, even theology which calls itself practical theology, remains detached from the material contexts that people find themselves in.

Artists for Change from Church Action on Poverty

If we ask you to imagine a meeting aimed at ending poverty, what comes to mind, and where are you?

Perhaps you’re thinking of a gathering of professionals in a formal meeting room, discussing strategies and policies. (Exciting? No?)

Perhaps you’re imagining something more dynamic and grounded in community: people bouncing ideas around and seeking to reclaim power.

It’s maybe less likely you’re imaging yourself at an art exhibition, or a live gig, or a poetry reading.

A Quick Guide to the General Election

On Wednesday the 22nd of May Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made an announcement that the next UK general election will be taking place on the 4th of July 2024. This was unexpected for many and welcomed by many more. We have just under six weeks until the electorate will be able to vote for the people they want to represent them in the House of Commons. If this is your first time voting or taking part in a general election, then consider this a quick guide to what happens now.