Review: Love Your Neighbor

June 17, 2026 - 18:01

In a world that often feels divided, two professors have teamed up to offer a practical guide for building genuine community. Katherine M. Douglass and Brittany M. Tausen blend their expertise in practical theology and psychological science to create a fresh approach to an ancient command. Their book, "Love Your Neighbor," is not just a spiritual call but a grounded, research-backed manual for everyday life.

The authors argue that loving your neighbor is more than a nice idea; it is a skill that can be learned and practiced. They bring Scripture into direct conversation with cutting-edge psychological studies, showing how ancient wisdom aligns with modern findings on empathy, connection, and social bonding. For example, they explore how concepts like forgiveness and hospitality are supported by research on stress reduction and mental health.

What sets this work apart is its refusal to be either purely devotional or purely academic. Douglass and Tausen write with clarity, offering concrete steps for readers who want to move beyond good intentions. They address real-world obstacles, such as busy schedules and social anxiety, without resorting to platitudes. The result is a book that feels both wise and accessible, urging readers to see their neighbors not as projects but as people. For anyone seeking to deepen their relationships or heal fractured communities, this synthesis offers a thoughtful, actionable path forward.