Book excerpt: Something is wrong in America. Our streets are not safe. Families are in crisis. Corporations value profit above all else. And in this time of partisan politics and divisive self-interest, where is the voice of integrity and authority? The Religious Right? The secular Left? In this visionary work, prominent social activist and pastor Jim Wallis cuts to the heart of the debate to offer a moral and spiritual alternative to both sides of the political spectrum. In a daring attack on the Religious Right, Wallis reveals how its extreme positions actually conflict with the Bible, yet wield an enormous, and dangerous, influence in Washington. He also exposes the emptiness of the policies of the secular Left--programs he feels are devoid of values and spirituality. Instead of platitudes, Wallis discusses real people; instead of slogans, he offers solutions, calling for a new politics of compassion, community, and civility--the three touchstones of a balanced society. Whether he talks about abortion, welfare, crime, or a new social agenda, he gives surprising, and provocative, answers to the questions that concern us all. Who Speaks For God? is a call to action for the millions of Americans who yearn for a more humane and spiritual national agenda. And in this transformational and practical book, Jim Wallis puts that vision within reach for all of us