American Christianity Started Out as an Economic Commodity. Ignoring this Fact Could Prove Costly.

Context

Christianity in the early American Republic was deeply entwined with commerce, challenging traditional scholarly divisions between religion and economics. Using Alexander Campbell as a case study, it shows how religious publishing became both a commercial enterprise and a means of theological expression—shaping faith communities and broader American culture through market-driven dynamics.

Secondary Source
Source Title: Selling the "Necessaries of Life": Alexander Campbell and Consumerist Christianity in the Early Republic
Source Category: Peer-Reviewed
Source Format: Journal Article
Author(s): James Dupey
Publication Title: Early American Studies: An Interdisciplinary Journal
Volume: 23
Issue: 2
Pages: 215-243
Publication Date: Spring 2025
Publisher: Penn Press
DOI: 10.1353/eam.2025.a958898
View Source

A Better Way to Engage with the Issues

Better Discourse is a place to find thoughtful, in-depth reflections on political, cultural, and theological topics, where contributors are committed to engaging constructively with opposing viewpoints. The platform emphasizes respectful, sustained dialogue and models virtues like patience, openness, and intellectual courage in tackling difficult topics.

Better Articles

Check out essays and opinion pieces championing thoughtful dialogue, not shouting matches.

Explore

Better Sources

Engage with high-quality annotated sources on various topics. Become a contributor and add your voice.

Explore

Better Book Reviews

Discover books that challenge assumptions, deepen empathy, and promote meaningful conversations.

Explore

Better Tools

Try out research tools designed to help you dig deeper, think sharper, and speak with integrity.

Explore