Christianism, Christian Nationalism: Christian Extremism, Patriotism
Christianism or Christian Nationalism is analogous to Islamism. Just as Islamists seek to reform society along Islamic lines and force society to conform to conservative Islamic values, Christianists seek to reform society along Christian lines and force society to conform to their conservative Christian values. They are Christian Nationalists because they have combined conservative, evangelical Christian theology with extreme American nationalism.
Slavery & Christianity in the Old South: Blending Culture and Christianity
Slavery is, obviously, supported in the Bible. Slavery was defended in the Old South by good white Christians who relied on the Bible to justify their immoral, unjust, and oppressive culture. What many don't realize, though, is how extensively intertwined Christianity and slavery were in the Old South. In many ways, the Civil War as a much a defense of Christianity as it was a defense of slavery: the elimination of slavery meant the elimination of an institution grounded in Christian doctrine.
Slavery is, obviously, supported in the Bible. Slavery was defended in the Old South by good white Christians who relied on the Bible to justify their immoral, unjust, and oppressive culture. What many don't realize, though, is how extensively intertwined Christianity and slavery were in the Old South. In many ways, the Civil War as a much a defense of Christianity as it was a defense of slavery: the elimination of slavery meant the elimination of an institution grounded in Christian doctrine.
Moral Panics, Authoritarian Government, and Conservative Christianity
America's Christian Right has long made the idea of 'law and order' an important political slogan. Religious conservatives have attacked the prison system for being too lenient, for emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment, for pampering prisoners, and for being too sentimental. It's as if they are more interested in the vengeful God of the Old Testament than the forgiving Jesus of the New Testament. There is a precedence for such arguments, but it's not a pleasant one.
America's Christian Right has long made the idea of 'law and order' an important political slogan. Religious conservatives have attacked the prison system for being too lenient, for emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment, for pampering prisoners, and for being too sentimental. It's as if they are more interested in the vengeful God of the Old Testament than the forgiving Jesus of the New Testament. There is a precedence for such arguments, but it's not a pleasant one.
Torture Values Coalition: Christian Nationalists Endorse Torture
Christian Nationalists usually act as though they were the sole defenders of morality, Christianity, and traditional American values. At no point have I ever seen them acknowledge any validity to the perspectives of liberal Christians, for example. Observers have long remarked that the "morality" of Christian Nationalists was limited almost solely to sexual matters.
Christian Nationalists usually act as though they were the sole defenders of morality, Christianity, and traditional American values. At no point have I ever seen them acknowledge any validity to the perspectives of liberal Christians, for example. Observers have long remarked that the "morality" of Christian Nationalists was limited almost solely to sexual matters.
Modernity, Liberalism, and Modernism vs. Christian Tradition
Fundamentalism and conservative forms of most religions share in common a strongly negative reaction to modernity, the modern world, and everything which modernism brings. This is relatively easy to point out, but the true implications are as important as they are difficult to fully grasp.
Fundamentalism and conservative forms of most religions share in common a strongly negative reaction to modernity, the modern world, and everything which modernism brings. This is relatively easy to point out, but the true implications are as important as they are difficult to fully grasp.
Arbeit Macht Frei: American Dream & Christian Nationalism
The degree to which American Christianity has internalized the principles, values, and language of market capitalism is truly amazing. Even leaving aside the arguments for how capitalism and Christianity can be contradictory, it should still be obvious that Christianity doesn't mandate market capitalism in the way that American Christians seem to think. What's going on here?
The degree to which American Christianity has internalized the principles, values, and language of market capitalism is truly amazing. Even leaving aside the arguments for how capitalism and Christianity can be contradictory, it should still be obvious that Christianity doesn't mandate market capitalism in the way that American Christians seem to think. What's going on here?
Would Pat Buchanan Prefer a White, Christian America?
Pat Buchanan has a problem with race. Throughout his careers in politics and the media, he has advanced positions, ideas, and arguments which at best appear to be a cover for overt racism and White Supremacy. It's been difficult to tell whether he's a complete racist, someone who merely harbors a few vaguely or superficially racist positions, or someone who really doesn't know what he's saying.
Pat Buchanan has a problem with race. Throughout his careers in politics and the media, he has advanced positions, ideas, and arguments which at best appear to be a cover for overt racism and White Supremacy. It's been difficult to tell whether he's a complete racist, someone who merely harbors a few vaguely or superficially racist positions, or someone who really doesn't know what he's saying.
Swords v Plowshares: Does America Express Christian Values?
When people claim that America is a "Christian Nation," what do they mean? The only sense in which it's true is that American is demographically Christian, but that's not what Christians have in mind. Instead, they seem to want to say that America embodies so-called "Christian" values - but what sorts of values appear to matter most in American politics and society?
When people claim that America is a "Christian Nation," what do they mean? The only sense in which it's true is that American is demographically Christian, but that's not what Christians have in mind. Instead, they seem to want to say that America embodies so-called "Christian" values - but what sorts of values appear to matter most in American politics and society?
God and the Confederate States of America
Many people insist that Southern Secession and the following American Civil War was based upon a political dispute over states' rights. The reality is that the conflict between South and North was far more about slavery than states' rights and, moreover, that this dispute had more to do with religion than just politics. The truth of this is revealed by read the Confederate Constitution.
Many people insist that Southern Secession and the following American Civil War was based upon a political dispute over states' rights. The reality is that the conflict between South and North was far more about slavery than states' rights and, moreover, that this dispute had more to do with religion than just politics. The truth of this is revealed by read the Confederate Constitution.
Criticism of the State is Blasphemy
There are many Americans who seem bound and determined to do all they can to transform America into a massive church. One step in that direction was the effort to criminalize "desecration" of the American flag. Another, newer step in that direction appears to be the blending of criticism of the government with criticism of religion.
There are many Americans who seem bound and determined to do all they can to transform America into a massive church. One step in that direction was the effort to criminalize "desecration" of the American flag. Another, newer step in that direction appears to be the blending of criticism of the government with criticism of religion.
Alan Keyes Defends State-Level Theocracies
Should state governments be able to create a theocratic order by establishing particular churches and religions as a preferred form of worship and belief? Most Americans believe in religious freedom and don't think that governments on any level should dictate religious belief to American citizens. Alan Keyes, one-time Reagan administration official, is not most people. Keyes is a theocrat.
Should state governments be able to create a theocratic order by establishing particular churches and religions as a preferred form of worship and belief? Most Americans believe in religious freedom and don't think that governments on any level should dictate religious belief to American citizens. Alan Keyes, one-time Reagan administration official, is not most people. Keyes is a theocrat.
The Political Agenda of the American Right
There is a common factor behind the America's right-wing assaults on teaching evolution, access to contraception or abortion, civil equality for gays, feminism, drug legalization, divorce, and so forth: opposition to modernity. America's right-wing, especially the Christian Right, is seeking to undermine the modern developments begun during the Enlightenment.
There is a common factor behind the America's right-wing assaults on teaching evolution, access to contraception or abortion, civil equality for gays, feminism, drug legalization, divorce, and so forth: opposition to modernity. America's right-wing, especially the Christian Right, is seeking to undermine the modern developments begun during the Enlightenment.
America as God's Chosen Nation
One of the more obscure figures in American history, John Winthrop may be one of the least famous people every American should know about. Winthrop was instrumental in shaping what came to be known as the 'puritan' attitude in American culture and politics. That attitude has remained with us in various forms and will probably continue to do so through the foreseeable future.
One of the more obscure figures in American history, John Winthrop may be one of the least famous people every American should know about. Winthrop was instrumental in shaping what came to be known as the 'puritan' attitude in American culture and politics. That attitude has remained with us in various forms and will probably continue to do so through the foreseeable future.
Dominionism & Dominion Theology: Laying the Theological Basis for American Theocracy
Also known as Dominionism, Dominion Theology teaches that all of humanity is under the sovereign dominion of God. This means that Christians, as the followers of the only True Religion and representatives of God, have a divine mandate to rule over the rest of humanity. Dominion Theology is a doctrinal foundation for a number of movements, most prominently Christian Reconstructionism and Christian Identity. It has also become increasingly influential within America's broader Christian Right.
Also known as Dominionism, Dominion Theology teaches that all of humanity is under the sovereign dominion of God. This means that Christians, as the followers of the only True Religion and representatives of God, have a divine mandate to rule over the rest of humanity. Dominion Theology is a doctrinal foundation for a number of movements, most prominently Christian Reconstructionism and Christian Identity. It has also become increasingly influential within America's broader Christian Right.
Christianity in the Confederate South: Southern Nationalism and Conservative Christianity
During the Civil War, both North and South taught that God was on their side and favored their cause. For Southerners, this meant arguing that God favored preserving the institution of slavery. Southern preachers argued that the South was the last, best hope for Western civilization. It is difficult to overestimate the role of Christianity in providing the South with a religious and ideological basis for secession and nationalistic aspirations.
During the Civil War, both North and South taught that God was on their side and favored their cause. For Southerners, this meant arguing that God favored preserving the institution of slavery. Southern preachers argued that the South was the last, best hope for Western civilization. It is difficult to overestimate the role of Christianity in providing the South with a religious and ideological basis for secession and nationalistic aspirations.
Christianism & Christian Nationalism: Extreme Nationalism plus Extremist Christianity
Christianism is the Christian analogue to Islamism, a doctrine about using Islam as the basis for government. Also known as Christian Nationalism, it is a blend of extremist religion and even more extreme nationalism, going well beyond both. It has occurred in many nations: America through most of its history, the Confederate South, and Nazi Germany are prominent examples. It varies according to the nationalism of each nation, but it the nature of the Christianity is often consistent.
Christianism is the Christian analogue to Islamism, a doctrine about using Islam as the basis for government. Also known as Christian Nationalism, it is a blend of extremist religion and even more extreme nationalism, going well beyond both. It has occurred in many nations: America through most of its history, the Confederate South, and Nazi Germany are prominent examples. It varies according to the nationalism of each nation, but it the nature of the Christianity is often consistent.
America: Bright Hope to Humanity?
More than one person has argued that what is particularly shocking about the abuse of Iraqi prisoners by American soldiers is that Americans "should be better." This is not so much because all humans should be better but instead because Americans in particular have a "duty" to be better than everyone else.
More than one person has argued that what is particularly shocking about the abuse of Iraqi prisoners by American soldiers is that Americans "should be better." This is not so much because all humans should be better but instead because Americans in particular have a "duty" to be better than everyone else.
Christian Privileges & American Society: Unpacking Hidden Ways that Christians are Privileged
The concept of 'nonconscious ideology' was created to describe those ideologies whose implicit, unreflective, and uncritical acceptance help maintain their dominance in society. Sexism and racism are nonconscious ideologies in which the inferiority of one group is reinforced through a multitude of assumptions and interactions that occur outside our conscious consideration. The same is true with Christian Privilege: Christians are continuously told that they are special and deserve privileges.
The concept of 'nonconscious ideology' was created to describe those ideologies whose implicit, unreflective, and uncritical acceptance help maintain their dominance in society. Sexism and racism are nonconscious ideologies in which the inferiority of one group is reinforced through a multitude of assumptions and interactions that occur outside our conscious consideration. The same is true with Christian Privilege: Christians are continuously told that they are special and deserve privileges.
Christian Privilege & Christian Supremacy
One of the most significant developments in American Christianity has been Christian Nationalism. An ill-begotten blend of extreme nationalism and even more extreme Christianity, it would supplant liberal democracy with illiberal theocracy. Few are conscious adherents of this ideology (also known as Christianism, Christian Supremacy, Dominion Theology, and Christian Reconstructionism)...
One of the most significant developments in American Christianity has been Christian Nationalism. An ill-begotten blend of extreme nationalism and even more extreme Christianity, it would supplant liberal democracy with illiberal theocracy. Few are conscious adherents of this ideology (also known as Christianism, Christian Supremacy, Dominion Theology, and Christian Reconstructionism)...
Christian Nationalism: Betrayal of Germany, Betrayal of God
When Christians identify their nation's political agenda and political system with God's Will, any losses suffered by their nation are perceived as an affront to God as well. Admission that some political action taken was wrong and needs to be reconsidered is tantamount to a betrayal not just of political leaders and the nation's destiny, but of God as well.
When Christians identify their nation's political agenda and political system with God's Will, any losses suffered by their nation are perceived as an affront to God as well. Admission that some political action taken was wrong and needs to be reconsidered is tantamount to a betrayal not just of political leaders and the nation's destiny, but of God as well.
Christian Supremacy: Pushing the Dhimmitude of Non-Christians in America
In America, the notion of Christian Supremacy encompasses both a moral attitude and a political program. In the moral realm, Christian Supremacy is the idea that Christianity is superior to all other religions, and by extension, that Christians are superior to all non-Christians. Politically, Christian Supremacy is an agenda to get America's political institutions to reflect this superiority by favoring Christians over non-Christians and Christianity over all other beliefs.
In America, the notion of Christian Supremacy encompasses both a moral attitude and a political program. In the moral realm, Christian Supremacy is the idea that Christianity is superior to all other religions, and by extension, that Christians are superior to all non-Christians. Politically, Christian Supremacy is an agenda to get America's political institutions to reflect this superiority by favoring Christians over non-Christians and Christianity over all other beliefs.
Christian Privilege & Religious Privilege: Christian Claims to Privilege in Politics, Culture
Society has enforced many sorts of privilege where one group has advantages over all others due to their supposed superiority. There has been white privilege, where whites have had privileges and powers unavailable to other races. There has been male privilege, where men have had power and options denied to women, whatever their race. With Christian and religious privilege, Christianity, Christians, or religion generally are given a special status over other religions or beliefs.
Society has enforced many sorts of privilege where one group has advantages over all others due to their supposed superiority. There has been white privilege, where whites have had privileges and powers unavailable to other races. There has been male privilege, where men have had power and options denied to women, whatever their race. With Christian and religious privilege, Christianity, Christians, or religion generally are given a special status over other religions or beliefs.
America as God's Chosen Nation
There is more resentment around the world towards America's actions than there is towards the actions of other nations. This can be explained in part because America's global power puts them into contact - and conflict - with more people than most nations. It's not the entire story, though: Americans' attitude towards their relationship with others is unlike what you will find in other nations.
There is more resentment around the world towards America's actions than there is towards the actions of other nations. This can be explained in part because America's global power puts them into contact - and conflict - with more people than most nations. It's not the entire story, though: Americans' attitude towards their relationship with others is unlike what you will find in other nations.
Christian Militarism, Sacred Violence: Divine Sanction for State Power
One of the reasons why the Nazis under Hitler were able to attract so much Christian support was the fact that Christians in Germany believed that their nation had been chosen by God to fulfill an important historic mission. Hitler and the Nazis promoted this ideology and promised to return Germany to its position of international prominence.
One of the reasons why the Nazis under Hitler were able to attract so much Christian support was the fact that Christians in Germany believed that their nation had been chosen by God to fulfill an important historic mission. Hitler and the Nazis promoted this ideology and promised to return Germany to its position of international prominence.
Sexual Freedom as Social Disorder
When religious conservatives complain about modernity, many of their attacks are directed at sexual matters: decoupling sex from reproduction, pornography, sex before marriage, homosexuality, etc. We find this with both Muslims and Christians, so what is the common thread?
When religious conservatives complain about modernity, many of their attacks are directed at sexual matters: decoupling sex from reproduction, pornography, sex before marriage, homosexuality, etc. We find this with both Muslims and Christians, so what is the common thread?
Demonization Rhetoric from the Right
Sometimes the rhetoric heard from American conservatives almost sounds more like a medical report than a political analysis: America suffers from "decay" and is "sick" because of the "corruption" and "infection" of liberal, subversive elements. Such demonizing rhetoric is harmful to the political process.
Sometimes the rhetoric heard from American conservatives almost sounds more like a medical report than a political analysis: America suffers from "decay" and is "sick" because of the "corruption" and "infection" of liberal, subversive elements. Such demonizing rhetoric is harmful to the political process.
Objectification and Evangelization
Proselytization is central to the religious faith of many evangelical Christians - they will "share" their beliefs with anyone they come across if they are given half a chance. They believe they are doing a good deed, but from the other side it often doesn't appear very positive.
Proselytization is central to the religious faith of many evangelical Christians - they will "share" their beliefs with anyone they come across if they are given half a chance. They believe they are doing a good deed, but from the other side it often doesn't appear very positive.
Sanctified Violence and Religious Devotion
Many religions proclaim that they are peaceful and opposed to violence, but these same religions generally have traditions in which violence, war, and aggression are sanctified. To be "sanctified" means "to be made holy" - thus violence becomes a form of religious devotion like prayer or reading sacred scripture.
Many religions proclaim that they are peaceful and opposed to violence, but these same religions generally have traditions in which violence, war, and aggression are sanctified. To be "sanctified" means "to be made holy" - thus violence becomes a form of religious devotion like prayer or reading sacred scripture.
Puritan Theology and Evangelical Christians
For modern Christians, Jesus is the focus of everything they believe and do. What many don't realize, though, is that Jesus wasn't always the focus of American Christians. In the past, God was the focus - even to the point of Jesus being shoved out of the picture.
For modern Christians, Jesus is the focus of everything they believe and do. What many don't realize, though, is that Jesus wasn't always the focus of American Christians. In the past, God was the focus - even to the point of Jesus being shoved out of the picture.
Discrimination as the Christian Right's Goal
The Christian Right often likes to portray itself as standing up for religious liberty on the one hand and traditional religious values on the other. The means by which they expect to advance these, things, though, is through the elimination of full civil equality of those groups which are regarded as morally and spiritually inferior.
The Christian Right often likes to portray itself as standing up for religious liberty on the one hand and traditional religious values on the other. The means by which they expect to advance these, things, though, is through the elimination of full civil equality of those groups which are regarded as morally and spiritually inferior.
Far-Right Attacks on Prisons Being Soft on Criminals
Contemporary American conservatism has long made the idea of 'law and order' an important political slogan. Conservatives attack the prison system for being too lenient, for emphasizing treatment over punishment, for pampering prisoners, and for being too sentimental. There is a precedence for such arguments, but it's not a very pleasant one.
Contemporary American conservatism has long made the idea of 'law and order' an important political slogan. Conservatives attack the prison system for being too lenient, for emphasizing treatment over punishment, for pampering prisoners, and for being too sentimental. There is a precedence for such arguments, but it's not a very pleasant one.
Aggressive Christianity: Combining the Bible and the Gun
Iraq isn't the first place where America's Christian Right has sought out a war in order to spread American values. One other time this occurred was when President William Mckinley invaded the Philippines. Christians supported this war because they thought it was the Will of God that the Philippines be made safe for Protestant Christianity and democracy.
Iraq isn't the first place where America's Christian Right has sought out a war in order to spread American values. One other time this occurred was when President William Mckinley invaded the Philippines. Christians supported this war because they thought it was the Will of God that the Philippines be made safe for Protestant Christianity and democracy.
Discrimination as the Christian Right's Goal
The Christian Right often likes to portray itself as standing up for religious liberty on the one hand and traditional religious values on the other. The means by which they expect to advance these, things, though, is through the elimination of full civil equality of those groups which are regarded as morally and spiritually inferior.
The Christian Right often likes to portray itself as standing up for religious liberty on the one hand and traditional religious values on the other. The means by which they expect to advance these, things, though, is through the elimination of full civil equality of those groups which are regarded as morally and spiritually inferior.
Secularism and De-Christianization: Religion in America
America's Christian Right believes that the history of Christian hegemony in the United States has been morally, religiously, and politically appropriate. They thus see the waning of this hegemony as a moral, religious, and political evil - one which can only be corrected by the re-establishment of Christianity as the de facto basis of American culture.
America's Christian Right believes that the history of Christian hegemony in the United States has been morally, religiously, and politically appropriate. They thus see the waning of this hegemony as a moral, religious, and political evil - one which can only be corrected by the re-establishment of Christianity as the de facto basis of American culture.
Would Jesus Be a Christian?
Many Christians ask 'what would Jesus do,' but perhaps they should take a step back and ask if Jesus would even admit to being a Christian in the context of contemporary American Christianity. What, if anything, do American Christians today have to do with the principles and commands attributed to Jesus in the Bible?
Many Christians ask 'what would Jesus do,' but perhaps they should take a step back and ask if Jesus would even admit to being a Christian in the context of contemporary American Christianity. What, if anything, do American Christians today have to do with the principles and commands attributed to Jesus in the Bible?
Liberalism, Power, and Bias
A common complaint made by conservatives today is that universities and colleges are biased towards liberals and liberalism. Rejecting anything like quotas for historically disadvantaged minorities, they appear to want ideological quotas for conservative students and teachers. Are their complaints justified, though?
A common complaint made by conservatives today is that universities and colleges are biased towards liberals and liberalism. Rejecting anything like quotas for historically disadvantaged minorities, they appear to want ideological quotas for conservative students and teachers. Are their complaints justified, though?
Theocrats for Christ
Some people object to using the word "theocrat" to describe members of the Christian Right and "theocracy" to describe the sort of society they seek. More and more of them, though, are becoming open and honest about the fact that this is exactly what they want: an America which is run according to their interpretation of what their god wants.
Some people object to using the word "theocrat" to describe members of the Christian Right and "theocracy" to describe the sort of society they seek. More and more of them, though, are becoming open and honest about the fact that this is exactly what they want: an America which is run according to their interpretation of what their god wants.
Discrimination Against Christians in America
Many conservative Christians argue that they are being discriminated against and persecuted in America. Why? Basically, because they have lost their once-dominant position in American politics, culture, and law. They can't stand being treated like adherents of every other religion and this, in turn, amounts to persecution in their minds.
Many conservative Christians argue that they are being discriminated against and persecuted in America. Why? Basically, because they have lost their once-dominant position in American politics, culture, and law. They can't stand being treated like adherents of every other religion and this, in turn, amounts to persecution in their minds.
How the Christian Right is Changing America
The Christian Right has been growing in power, influence, and numbers over the past several decades. Although they haven't managed to take control of American culture as they would like, it would be implausible to think that they haven't had any affect on culture - and probably for the worse.
The Christian Right has been growing in power, influence, and numbers over the past several decades. Although they haven't managed to take control of American culture as they would like, it would be implausible to think that they haven't had any affect on culture - and probably for the worse.
Myth of a Christian Nation
There are many Christians today who fervently insist that America is a Christian Nation and was founded as a Christian Nation. What, though, do they mean by this? Is there any sense in which they are correct? Perhaps - but definitely not in the sense which they appear to mean. Just the opposite appears to be the case, in fact.
There are many Christians today who fervently insist that America is a Christian Nation and was founded as a Christian Nation. What, though, do they mean by this? Is there any sense in which they are correct? Perhaps - but definitely not in the sense which they appear to mean. Just the opposite appears to be the case, in fact.
America Based on God's Laws, God's Rights
One of the fundamental dangers posted by the Christian Right in America is that they want to replace democracy with theocracy. Few advocate this openly, but it is the undeniable consequence of the much more common rhetoric about how America must be ruled by "God's Laws" and according to (their interpretation of) God's standards.
One of the fundamental dangers posted by the Christian Right in America is that they want to replace democracy with theocracy. Few advocate this openly, but it is the undeniable consequence of the much more common rhetoric about how America must be ruled by "God's Laws" and according to (their interpretation of) God's standards.
Imperialism of the Christian Right
One of the things which many seemed to find curious about Pat Robertson's call to assassinate a foreign leader is why he, a religious leader, would care so much about international politics. What does this have to do with the Christian Church? In fact, America's Christian Right may be becoming an increasingly imperialistic religion, wedded to imperialistic politics.
One of the things which many seemed to find curious about Pat Robertson's call to assassinate a foreign leader is why he, a religious leader, would care so much about international politics. What does this have to do with the Christian Church? In fact, America's Christian Right may be becoming an increasingly imperialistic religion, wedded to imperialistic politics.
Fallen Evangelicals in America
Evangelical Christians like to portray themselves as the moral saviors of America. They insist that if only the government agrees to their desires - like posting the Ten Commandments in schools and courts - then America%u2019s social and moral problems would be solved. If that%u2019s the case, though, why aren%u2019t evangelicals any better than the rest of the nation?
Evangelical Christians like to portray themselves as the moral saviors of America. They insist that if only the government agrees to their desires - like posting the Ten Commandments in schools and courts - then America%u2019s social and moral problems would be solved. If that%u2019s the case, though, why aren%u2019t evangelicals any better than the rest of the nation?
America's Christian Soldiers
Only 14% of the American population describes themselves as evangelical Christians, but 40% of active duty military personnel describe themselves as evangelical Christians - and 60% of all military chaplains are evangelicals. What is going on?
Only 14% of the American population describes themselves as evangelical Christians, but 40% of active duty military personnel describe themselves as evangelical Christians - and 60% of all military chaplains are evangelicals. What is going on?
Fundamentalism as an Absence of Faith
It's common for the Christian Right today to describe itself as "people of faith," an analogue to the phrase "people of color" and designed to imply that everyone who doesn't agree with the lack faith, religion, and Christianity. In reality, though, it's arguable that right-wing religious movements are themselves motivated by a lack of faith
It's common for the Christian Right today to describe itself as "people of faith," an analogue to the phrase "people of color" and designed to imply that everyone who doesn't agree with the lack faith, religion, and Christianity. In reality, though, it's arguable that right-wing religious movements are themselves motivated by a lack of faith
Fundamentalism and Fear of Modernity
It is curious that the Christian Right is so antagonistic towards homosexuals. Gays are a relatively small minority in society and can pose little threat to Christianity or Christians' lives. It is difficult to fathom, then, what it is that they fear so much. What do they imagine will happen if gays have the same rights as everyone else?
It is curious that the Christian Right is so antagonistic towards homosexuals. Gays are a relatively small minority in society and can pose little threat to Christianity or Christians' lives. It is difficult to fathom, then, what it is that they fear so much. What do they imagine will happen if gays have the same rights as everyone else?
Slavery & Christianity in the Old South (Book Notes: Rebuilding Zion)
Slavery is, obviously, supported in the Bible. Slavery was defended in the Old South by good white Christians who relied on the Bible. What many people don't realize, however, is just how extensively intertwined Christianity and slavery were in the Old South. In many ways, the Civil War as a much a defense of Christianity as it was a defense of slavery.
Slavery is, obviously, supported in the Bible. Slavery was defended in the Old South by good white Christians who relied on the Bible. What many people don't realize, however, is just how extensively intertwined Christianity and slavery were in the Old South. In many ways, the Civil War as a much a defense of Christianity as it was a defense of slavery.
State vs. Church in Evangelicals' Minds
A common and curious aspect to many conservative evangelicals' complaints about the absence of their religion in the government is the way they focus on the state rather than on their own churches. Why do they invest the state with the responsibility to promote theism and religion?
A common and curious aspect to many conservative evangelicals' complaints about the absence of their religion in the government is the way they focus on the state rather than on their own churches. Why do they invest the state with the responsibility to promote theism and religion?
America's God
One thing that is important to understand about American Christianity is that it is as American as it is Christian. It naturally shares many features with Christianity in other nations, but there are also many important features which are foreign to Christians around the world.
One thing that is important to understand about American Christianity is that it is as American as it is Christian. It naturally shares many features with Christianity in other nations, but there are also many important features which are foreign to Christians around the world.
Sweet Little Prairie Muffins
Would you like to be a Prairie Muffin? You can, if you are a woman who is willing to have just as many kids as you possible through your life - a dozen or more, in fact. It will also help if you give up any independent career and completely dedicate yourself to you kids and your husband, subordinating yourself completely to him. Sounds like fun, doesn't it?
Would you like to be a Prairie Muffin? You can, if you are a woman who is willing to have just as many kids as you possible through your life - a dozen or more, in fact. It will also help if you give up any independent career and completely dedicate yourself to you kids and your husband, subordinating yourself completely to him. Sounds like fun, doesn't it?
Divorce as a Sin and a Crime: Christianity, Marriage, and the State
The arguments being used by the Christian Right today against gay marriage are not unique or sui generis. These arguments are an integral part of how the Christian Right views the world and they have used the exact same arguments in the past - for example, when they were opposing the liberalization of divorce laws.
The arguments being used by the Christian Right today against gay marriage are not unique or sui generis. These arguments are an integral part of how the Christian Right views the world and they have used the exact same arguments in the past - for example, when they were opposing the liberalization of divorce laws.
Christianity, Violence, and Holy Wars
Christians often preach a religion of peace; the history of Christianity, though, is marked by rivers of blood shed in the name of righteous, religious causes. There is something incongruous about the use of the Christian cross as a symbol for war, but that's exactly what it's been.
Christians often preach a religion of peace; the history of Christianity, though, is marked by rivers of blood shed in the name of righteous, religious causes. There is something incongruous about the use of the Christian cross as a symbol for war, but that's exactly what it's been.
Anger and Christianity
Although the concept of 'seven deadly sins' no longer holds the same authority as it once did, the degree to which many of them have come to be viewed positively is remarkable. Even anger, one of the few which Jesus is recorded as specifically speaking out against, is treated as having positive value by Christians today.
Although the concept of 'seven deadly sins' no longer holds the same authority as it once did, the degree to which many of them have come to be viewed positively is remarkable. Even anger, one of the few which Jesus is recorded as specifically speaking out against, is treated as having positive value by Christians today.
The Perpetual Death of Christian Marriage
"Yonder comes ... a ship having all the evidence of tempestuous passage: salt water-mark reaching to the top of the smoke-stack; ... bulwarks knocked in; ... main shaft broken; all the pumps working to keep from sinking. That ship is the institution of Christian marriage."
"Yonder comes ... a ship having all the evidence of tempestuous passage: salt water-mark reaching to the top of the smoke-stack; ... bulwarks knocked in; ... main shaft broken; all the pumps working to keep from sinking. That ship is the institution of Christian marriage."
Christian Nation and Presidential Elections
It's become common in America for religion to be used as a political football. Implicitly or explicitly, there are many who argue that a person should receive or be denied people's votes based upon the candidate's religious beliefs. There is actually a long tradition of this in America - but it's not one that anyone should want to be part of.
It's become common in America for religion to be used as a political football. Implicitly or explicitly, there are many who argue that a person should receive or be denied people's votes based upon the candidate's religious beliefs. There is actually a long tradition of this in America - but it's not one that anyone should want to be part of.
America as a Community of the Righteous
Many citizens see America as a quasi-religious project - they have been ordained by God to bring the Truth and the Light to all the people's of the Earth. One consequence of Americans having the Light and all others lacking it is that Americans are regarded as uniquely and automatically righteous.
Many citizens see America as a quasi-religious project - they have been ordained by God to bring the Truth and the Light to all the people's of the Earth. One consequence of Americans having the Light and all others lacking it is that Americans are regarded as uniquely and automatically righteous.
Religious Privilege in Modern Society
For a long time, religion has served as an important part of most cultures around the world. Religion has been a primary basis for art, music, and literature. Religion has been a primary source of morality and social stability. Religion has provided people with a means for understanding the world and their place in it. This is no longer the case, but should religion be treated as if it were?
For a long time, religion has served as an important part of most cultures around the world. Religion has been a primary basis for art, music, and literature. Religion has been a primary source of morality and social stability. Religion has provided people with a means for understanding the world and their place in it. This is no longer the case, but should religion be treated as if it were?
Christians Should Take Control
Many in the Christian Right argue that Christians should be the ones to control society - not just politics, but all of the culture. Few of those who believe this, though, are willing to admit it openly. Most seem to realize how offensive and bigoted this is, but there are those who just don't get it.
Many in the Christian Right argue that Christians should be the ones to control society - not just politics, but all of the culture. Few of those who believe this, though, are willing to admit it openly. Most seem to realize how offensive and bigoted this is, but there are those who just don't get it.
America as a Christian Nation
It's common to hear from the Christian Right that America is a "Christian Nation" and, as such, should be ruled according to Christian principles, by Christian politicians, and for the benefit of a Christian agenda - not to mention for the benefit of Christians themselves. Their arguments are quite mistaken.
It's common to hear from the Christian Right that America is a "Christian Nation" and, as such, should be ruled according to Christian principles, by Christian politicians, and for the benefit of a Christian agenda - not to mention for the benefit of Christians themselves. Their arguments are quite mistaken.
Status of Women in Christianity & Islam
A common criticism of Islam is its treatment of women; at the same time, though, Christianity does not have a very good track record with its treatment of women, either. The reasons do not appear to be the same in both religions, though...
A common criticism of Islam is its treatment of women; at the same time, though, Christianity does not have a very good track record with its treatment of women, either. The reasons do not appear to be the same in both religions, though...
Neoconservatism & Christianity in America
In contemporary America, there has been a political union between neoconservatives and traditionalist Christians. Both have sought to reinforce the other in their political agenda. Are their ideologies really compatible, though?
In contemporary America, there has been a political union between neoconservatives and traditionalist Christians. Both have sought to reinforce the other in their political agenda. Are their ideologies really compatible, though?
Christianity, Christian Reconstructionism, Slavery
For hundreds of years, Christians defended slavery as a godly and divinely ordained institution. One would think that the South's loss in the Civil War had finally and irrevocably ended all Christian support for slavery, but that appears to not be the case. Some Christian Reconstructionists still think positively of it.
For hundreds of years, Christians defended slavery as a godly and divinely ordained institution. One would think that the South's loss in the Civil War had finally and irrevocably ended all Christian support for slavery, but that appears to not be the case. Some Christian Reconstructionists still think positively of it.
America: Civil Religion & the City on the Hill
Many people regard America as being an idea or ideal - but is it a religious idea? There may be some merit to that. Many of the first colonists in America saw it as a "City on the Hill," a "new Canaan" where a pure Christianity could be developed. For much of its history, people in America have seen their nation, guided by divine providence...
Many people regard America as being an idea or ideal - but is it a religious idea? There may be some merit to that. Many of the first colonists in America saw it as a "City on the Hill," a "new Canaan" where a pure Christianity could be developed. For much of its history, people in America have seen their nation, guided by divine providence...
Alexis de Tocqueville and American Democracy
Alexis de Tocqueville is best known for his praise of American democracy and society; less well known, however, are later criticisms he made of both. Apparently he grew disillusioned of America in ways that echo down through today.
Alexis de Tocqueville is best known for his praise of American democracy and society; less well known, however, are later criticisms he made of both. Apparently he grew disillusioned of America in ways that echo down through today.
Populism and Democracy
Populism is defined as a concern with the rights of the common people; democracy is a political system in which the people rule. So, populism and democracy should go well together, right? Perhaps not - perhaps the two can actually conflict, which raises interesting questions for American politics.
Populism is defined as a concern with the rights of the common people; democracy is a political system in which the people rule. So, populism and democracy should go well together, right? Perhaps not - perhaps the two can actually conflict, which raises interesting questions for American politics.