Secularization of the Christian West: The Contemporary Babylon?

Francisco Batista

doi:10.21697/CSP.2024.28.1.10

Published: 2024-11-25

No. 28 (2024)

Secularization of the Christian West: The Contemporary Babylon?

Francisco Batista

Christianity-World-Politics

Section: Articles

https://doi.org/10.21697/CSP.2024.28.1.10

Abstract

The cultural landscape of the Western hemisphere has historically been shaped by Christianity, which has strongly influenced societal values and identity. However, the foundations of this tradition now face significant challenges amid the forces of progress, modernity, and enlightenment. Scholars have long anticipated the rise of secularization, predicting profound shifts in human consciousness. Using Smith’s “Wisdom from Babylon: Leadership for the Church in a Secular Age” as a framework, this article explores these changes. The ongoing discussion of secularization sheds light on the growing phenomenon of Christian secularization in Western society, especially as postmodern thought triggers a quiet cultural revolution that questions traditional Christian values.

The article presents two main arguments. Many Christian communities have not withdrawn into privatized faith. Instead, they have actively resisted secular ideologies in the public sphere, often aligning with radical right-wing movements. Dataset methods vary between the World Values Survey (WVS), document material and online material (written, áudio and vídeo). Secondly, some Christian groups increasingly interpret recent events—especially regarding sexual and gender rights policies—not merely as cultural shifts but as eschatological signs, drawing parallels with biblical Babylon. These views are supported by WVS data and can reflect deeper theological responses to contemporary societal changes.

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Batista, F. (2024). Secularization of the Christian West: The Contemporary Babylon?. Christianity-World-Politics, (28), 152–170. https://doi.org/10.21697/CSP.2024.28.1.10

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