Some would argue that the ills of contemporary life are largely traceable to a deficiency of altruistic behavior. Greed and the self-seeking nature of consumer culture are considered responsible for the deterioration of social bonds that once kept life more humane. Americans from across the ideological spectrum have argued for the significance of civil society as an overlooked, yet integral, part of a functioning, healthy republic. As concerns about the level of civility and social capital in this country have grown, scholars have become increasingly interested in unraveling the very ingredients that define and produce civility and social capital. Many with an interest in civil society have been particularly interested in the question of what role faith-based organizations may play in countering the effects of greed and narcissistic behavior, thereby contributing to a more civil society in which altruistic behavior and other-directed love are more commonplace. Since many methodological and theoretical cross-cutting issues are relevant to this understudied topic, multidisciplinary projects are strongly encouraged. Interested scholars from sociology, political science, public administration, economics, and other relevant social science disciplines should consider applying.

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