Render Unto Caesar. . . What? Reflections on the Work of William Cavanaugh

An increasing concern for the place of religion in global politics in the past decade is reflected in the work of William Cavanaugh, a political theologian coming from the radical orthodox movement of the Roman Catholic tradition. Taking aim at key tropes in international relations, Cavanaugh introduces a strong critique of the legitimacy of the state and against its martial attitude. This review questions the historicity and generalizability of Cavanaughʹs analysis. It also challenges Cavanaughʹs exaltation of the church from both an internal and external perspective. Finally, it considers the expanded role of the state as compared to Cavanaughʹs vision of the martial state. By way of conclusion, it questions the extent to which Cavanaugh provides an alternative to consigning religious groups to civil society or a workable role for Christian engagement with global politics, even though he provides us with a strong critique of the state.