root of all evil, The
Book Description
Kenneth Moore Startup examines a fascinating intersection of faith and economics in antebellum America, revealing how religious leaders across denominations united in their warnings against the spiritual dangers of unchecked materialism. Drawing from sermons and writings of Protestant clergy throughout the nation, this scholarly exploration uncovers a remarkable consensus among religious voices who witnessed the rapid economic expansion of their era with growing alarm.
The book illuminates how ministers from both Northern and Southern states recognized a troubling pattern emerging in American society. They observed communities becoming increasingly consumed with wealth accumulation, material display, and the abandonment of charitable principles. These religious leaders believed such trends represented a fundamental threat to the nation's moral foundation and would ultimately lead to its downfall.
Through careful analysis of clerical writings, Startup challenges common assumptions about Southern economic attitudes during this transformative period. Rather than finding a region disconnected from capitalist ideologies, he reveals how Southern religious thought aligned closely with broader nineteenth-century economic concerns. The clergy's unified voice against what they termed "mammonism" demonstrates how spiritual leaders of the time understood the profound connection between material pursuits and spiritual well-being.
This work offers valuable insights into how religious communities grappled with the tension between prosperity and spiritual integrity, providing historical perspective on enduring questions about wealth, values, and moral responsibility in American society.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~6 hours)
🕉️ Tradition: Christianity
📄 Length: 218 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore U.s. church history
- ✓ Explore Church history
- ✓ Explore Southern states, economic conditions
- ✓ Explore Economic conditions
- ✓ Explore Economic conditions in the united states
- ✓ Explore General & miscellaneous protestantism
- ✓ Explore Economics - religious & moral aspects
- ✓ Explore Economics
