Is America a Christian Nation? According to author T. Carlos Andersen, the true religion of the land is the confluence of commerce, materialism, and consumerism. Andersen, defining religion as "ultimate concern," claims our true devotion is found in material pursuits. It's been a good religion; it has fed, clothed, sheltered, and employed millions of Americans. It can go too far, however. When these pursuits become excessive, the religion breaks bad and the common good suffers.