James Patterson

James Patterson, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Politics at Ave Maria University. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Houston, and both an M.A. and Ph.D. in Politics from the University of Virginia. His research focuses on race, religion, American political development, and American political thought, with a particular emphasis on figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Fulton Sheen, and the intersection of religious principles in public policy.

His notable works include the book Religion in the Public Square: Sheen, King, Falwell (2019) and an upcoming co-authored book on postliberalism (2025). His recent research explores topics such as the anti-Jim Crow theology of Atticus Haygood, the political theology of Archbishop Sheen, and the role of Catholic republicanism in American politics.

Dr. Patterson’s articles analyze themes like civic engagement in higher education, the historical impact of religious discourse on social movements, and the ethical dimensions of political thought. He actively contributes to academic and public discussions through peer-reviewed journals and platforms like Law & Liberty and Providence.

No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned in the provided text. His teaching and research reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary analysis and the integration of historical, theological, and political perspectives.