The response to political and social aggression often reveals the deep character of faith communities. When conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated at Utah Valley University, church leaders swiftly condemned the act and pleaded for greater kindness, compassion and goodness. Similarly, after a gunman killed four worshippers at a congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Michigan, members of their faith organized fundraisers for the shooter’s family . Their response exemplified pure religion — a refusal to meet hate with hate, choosing empathy and grace instead.

The roots of democratic resilience

As a political scientist, I study what makes democracy strong and resilient. My research points to an unexpected conclusion: the most powerful defense agai

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