Abstract

Michael Walzer's "communitarian correction" of liberal tradition is worthy of the notice it has received. Since Walzer has recently highlighted religious traditions as potential bearers of moral authority in public discourse, his work is of special interest to religious ethicists. However, this essay highlights the tensions in his work between a coherent communal value scheme of "deep understandings" and the requirements for full participation in a democratic and diverse society. These tensions are developed here through a focus on the ways in which Walzer handles difference, power, and membership. I conclude that his appealing blend of liberalism and communitarianism has a way of separating at the points where communal traditions, including religious traditions, come into conflict.