What is Christian Reconstructionism − and why it matters in US politics

Christian Reconstructionism, a little-known movement to rebuild society on biblical law, can often shape US debates over religion, politics and education.

By: Art Jipson, University of Dayton, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: January 12, 2026

Words: 1,336

Last Updated: 2 months ago

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By Art Jipson, University of Dayton

Christian Reconstructionism is a theological and political movement within conservative Protestantism that argues society should be governed by biblical principles, including the application of biblical law to both personal and public life.

Taking shape in the late 1950s, Christian Reconstructionism developed into a more organized movement during the 1960s and 1970s.

It was born from the ideas of theologian R. J. Rushdoony, an influential Armenian-American Calvinist …

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