Books
All the Kingdoms of the World
“All the Kingdoms of the World” critiques new radical religious doctrines, especially Catholic integralism, which seek to replace liberal democracy. It offers a compelling narrative on the resurgence of faith-infused political movements in the 21st century, countering the notion that such ideologies faded in the 20th century. Vallier examines these doctrines respectfully, proposing an eclectic method to assess their validity. He explores themes from political theology across various fields, encouraging readers to engage with these ideas, even if they find them unsettling. The book serves as an intellectual adventure into the intersections of faith and politics… Read More
Trust in a Polarized Age, Oxford UP, 2020
“Trust in a Polarized Age” explores the decline of trust among Americans and its role in increasing ideological conflicts. Political philosopher Kevin Vallier challenges the prevailing sense of hopelessness, arguing that trust isn’t doomed to decline. He defends liberalism by integrating political philosophy with empirical research on trust, advocating for the strengthening of democratic institutions—like governance, fairness, and social welfare—as a means to rebuild trust. Vallier emphasizes that these institutions not only foster trust but do so justly, upholding human rights. By following his insights, he believes trust can be restored in American society…. Read More
Must Politics Be War? Restoring Our Trust in the Open Society, Oxford UP, 2019.
In “Must Politics Be War?”, Kevin Vallier argues that the decline in trust among Americans fuels intense ideological conflicts and partisanship. While many view this polarization as a historical norm, Vallier contends that liberal democratic institutions can sustain social and political trust among diverse groups. He asserts that constitutional rights and democratic governance prevent any single ideology from dominating, allowing individuals to live according to their values. In contrast, illiberal systems foster distrust among dissenters. Vallier’s argument highlights that a liberal society promotes moral peace, enabling people with differing views to coexist without political conflict…. Read More
Liberal Politics and Public Faith: Beyond Separation, Routledge, 2014
“Trust in a Polarized Age” explores the decline of trust among Americans and its role in increasing ideological conflicts. Political philosopher Kevin Vallier challenges the prevailing sense of hopelessness, arguing that trust isn’t doomed to decline. He defends liberalism by integrating political philosophy with empirical research on trust, advocating for the strengthening of democratic institutions—like governance, fairness, and social welfare—as a means to rebuild trust. Vallier emphasizes that these institutions not only foster trust but do so justly, upholding human rights. By following his insights, he believes trust can be restored in American society…. Read More