The Mighty and the Almighty: Reflections on America, God, and World Affairs

“In this fascinating book, Madeleine Albright weaves together history, personal experiences, and brilliant analysis in exploring how religion can be a force for liberty and tolerance rather than oppression and terror.” -- Walter Isaacson, author of The Code Breaker

The New York Times bestselling author and former secretary of state Madeleine Albright offers a provocative and very personal look at the role of religion in America’s foreign policy

Traditionally, America’s foreign policy professionals have sought to downplay the impact of religious beliefs in international affairs. Reinforced by the constitutional separation between church and state, policymakers have shied away from this potentially volatile and divisive issue. In this timely precient book, one of the most renowned figures in American politic argues that in today’s climate, a secular approach is no longer sufficient. The 21st century seems to be devolving into a period of religious war, and in an era of confrontation between international terrorism and the West, our political leaders can no longer avoid dealing directly and explicitly with religious issues.

In The Mighty and the Almighty, Madeleine Albright examines religion and foreign affairs through the lens of U.S. history as well as her own experience in public office. She offers a sharp critique of U.S. policy, condemnation for those who exploit religious fervor for violent ends, and praise for political, cultural, and spiritual leaders who seek to harness the values of faith to unite us in these confusing and dangerous times.

Illuminating and engrossing, this is a provocative work calling for leadership that is bold enough to rein in divisive religious rivalries and lay the groundwork for a new moral consensus.

How does a nation founded on the separation of church and state confront a world where God and world affairs are increasingly intertwined?

• U.S. Policy in the Middle East: A candid critique of America’s approach to the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Iraq War, and relationships with key nations like Saudi Arabia and Iran.
• The Clash of Civilizations: An insider’s analysis of the growing divide between the West and the Islamic world, arguing that a purely secular approach is no longer enough to bridge the gap.
• The Rise of Political Islam: From the Iranian Revolution to the challenge of Al Qaeda, Albright examines the forces behind religious fervor and condemns those who exploit it for violent ends.
• Human Rights and Foreign Policy: Drawing on her own experiences in public office, Albright makes the case for a new moral consensus grounded in faith, tolerance, and liberty.

Does America, as George W. Bush has proclaimed, have a special mission, derived from God, to bring liberty and democracy to the world? How much influence does the Christian right have over U.S. foreign policy? And how should America deal with violent Islamist extremists?

Madeleine Albright, the former secretary of state and bestselling author of Madam Secretary, offers a thoughtful and often surprising look at the role of religion in shaping America’s approach to the world. Drawing upon her experiences while in office and her own deepest beliefs about morality, the United States, and the present state of world affairs, a woman noted for plain speaking offers her thoughts about the most controversial topics of our time.

In The Mighty and the Almighty, Madeleine Albright examines the profound impact of religion on America’s view of itself, the effect on U.S. policy of the rise of the Christian right, the Bush administration’s successes and failures in responding to 9/11, the challenges posed by the war in Iraq, and the importance of understanding Islam. She offers a balanced but, when necessary, devastating analysis of U.S. strategy and condemns those of all faiths who exploit religious fervor to create divisions or enhance their own power.

In this illuminating account, Albright argues that, to be effective, U.S. policy-makers must understand the power and place of religion in motivating others and in coloring how American actions are perceived. Defying the conventional wisdom, she suggests not only that religion and politics are inseparable, but that their partnership, when properly harnessed, can be a force for justice and peace.

“An engrossing, important read.” - People (4 stars)

“An absorbing, well-written, informative and thoughtful look at U.S. foreign policy and the role religion plays within it. . . . Albright offers a thought-provoking and original approach to incorporating religion into international relations.” - Lisa Ko, author of The Leavers

“Albright may be uniquely qualified to write this book. . . . An impressive feat of writing.” - Richmond Times Dispatch

“An absorbing look at the intersection of world politics and world religion.” - Booklist (starred review)

“Madeleine Albright’s book is timely, compelling and filled with surprising and sometimes inconvenient observations. A wise and thoughtful leader, she shares piercing insights about the most vital and profound issues facing America and the world. This is a superb and unique book.” - Václav Havel, former president, Czech Republic

“In this fascinating book, Madeleine Albright weaves together history, personal experiences, and brilliant analysis in exploring how religion can be a force for liberty and tolerance rather than oppression and terror.” - Walter Isaacson, author of Benjamin Franklin