Fusionism, Dominionism and the Contemporary Resurgence of Catholic Integralism

Abstract

Over the last decade, Catholic commentators in the United States have debated the appropriate relationship between the Church and the liberal state. One hitherto dominant group, known as fusionists, have argued that the state ought to remain religiously neutral. An emerging group known as integralists, however, have claimed that this is impossible. Instead, they argue that the Catholic Faith should form the basis for law and public policy. Opponents of integralism have linked the movement to a supposed Protestant counterpart, dominionism. In reality, the two movements are very different, with dominionists attempting to realize the Kingdom of Heaven on earth, and integralists having more modest goals.