Who Would Like This Book:
If you're fascinated (or deeply concerned) by the intersection of religion and politics in America, this is a must-read. Lavin's investigative journalism dives deep into how the Christian Right seeks political power, blending historical analysis, harrowing personal stories, and a sharp critique of evangelical influence. Anyone wanting a clearer picture of the current culture wars - especially those interested in social justice, recent U.S. history, or church/state separation - will find this book equal parts gripping and informative.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers find it too alarmist, arguing that it paints all evangelicals with the same brush or overstates their influence. Others feel the tone is unrelentingly negative, focusing heavily on the most extreme and abusive elements. If you're looking for a balanced or sympathetic view of conservative Christianity, or prefer books that offer more hope than outrage, this one might feel overwhelming or even one-sided.
About:
"Wild Faith" by Talia Lavin is a compelling examination of the influential role of the Christian right in American politics and society. The book details how Evangelical groups seek to reshape the nation into a Christian state, undermining the principles of freedom and separation of church and state. Through thorough research, Lavin highlights alarming practices within these communities, including abusive parenting philosophies and the promotion of misogyny and violence against dissent.
Lavin's writing style is both accessible and engaging, making complex and disturbing topics easier to digest. The alarming narratives she shares evoke strong emotions of anger and concern, especially regarding the implications of the Christian right on democracy and personal freedoms. Overall, "Wild Faith" serves as an urgent call to recognize and resist the growing influence of these extreme ideologies in today's political landscape.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include discussions of child abuse, misogyny, religious extremism, and political manipulation.
From The Publisher:
Esquire Best Nonfiction Books of 2024
The acclaimed author of Culture Warlords investigates the rise of the Christian Right over the last half-century that lays out the grim vision evangelicals are enforcing on our democracy.
All across America, a storm is gathering: from book bans in school libraries to anti-trans laws in state legislatures; firebombings of abortion clinics and protests against gay rights. The Christian Right, a cunning political force in America for more than half a century, has never been more powerful than it is right now-it propelled Donald Trump to power, and it won't stop until it's refashioned America in its own image.
In Wild Faith, critically acclaimed author Talia Lavin goes deep into what motivates the Christian Right, from its segregationist past to a future riddled with apocalyptic ideology.
Using primary sources and firsthand accounts, Lavin introduces you to "deliverance ministers" who carry out exorcisms by the hundreds; modern-day, self-proclaimed prophets and apostles; Christian militias, cults, zealots, and showmen; and the people in power who are aiding them to achieve their goals.
Along the way, she explores anti-abortion terrorists, the Christian Patriarchy movement, with its desire to place all women under absolute male control; the twisted theology that leads to rampant child abuse; and the ways conspiracy theorists and extremist Christians influence each other to mutual political benefit.
From school boards to the Supreme Court, Christian theocracy is ascendant in America-and only through exploring its motivations and impacts can we understand the crisis we face. In Wild Faith, Lavin fearlessly confronts whether our democracy can survive an organized, fervent theocratic movement, one that seeks to impose its religious beliefs on American citizens.
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Wild Faith: How the Christian Right Is Taking Over America?
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