Faiths, Governance and Democracy

Abstract

Things are busy for many people of faith. The policy spotlight has been shining in their direction, illuminating them in some revealing ways. As we have seen, faiths are being noticed again for the roles they play in community cohesion and social capital on the one hand, and in community projects, public sector contracting, social enterprise and the provision of services on the other. This often gives rise to controversy and debate about the legitimacy of faiths at all in these public spaces and the spotlight of policy has been brightening some contested corners in its glare.