Religious Rhetoric in US Right-Wing Politics: Donald Trump, Intergroup Threat, and Nationalism

This book explores the support of white conservative Christians for Donald Trump by examining the triangular relationship between the president, his voters, and religious organizations. It argues that Trump was portrayed as the protector and enhancer of Christian values, despite his detachment and exploitation of Christian symbols. The book highlights the cultural tools used by conservative politicians to accumulate power and reproduce structures of inequality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves into the intricate and multifaceted relationship between white conservative Christians, Donald Trump, and religious organizations. It aims to unravel the underlying factors that have contributed to their support for the 45th president, utilizing their own words. By examining the triangular relationship between these three entities, the book explores the creation of the narrative that portrays Trump as the protector and enhancer of Christian values.

The first part of the book provides a comprehensive analysis of the white conservative Christian constituency in the United States. It explores the historical roots of their displacement and resentment, fostered by intergroup threat and nationalism. The author sheds light on the factors that have shaped their worldview and political preferences, highlighting the importance of cultural and religious identity in their support for Trump.

The central part of the book focuses on the "Religious Right," a prominent segment within the conservative Christian community. Through the rhetoric of one of their most representative organizations in the twenty-first century, the author examines the ways in which the Religious Right has shaped the political discourse surrounding religion and values. The book highlights the strategies employed by the Religious Right to influence public opinion and gain political power, including the use of religious symbols and narratives.

The final part of the book delves into the character of Donald Trump and his peculiar relationship with religious discourse. While it is expected of Trump as a Republican candidate to engage with religious themes, the author argues that his approach to religious discourse is characterized by detachment and the sloganized exploitation of Christian symbols. The book explores how Trump has tapped into the cultural tools that are crucial in the reproduction of structures of inequality, using them to his advantage and to accumulate power.

Through its comprehensive analysis and insightful observations, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics that have shaped white conservative Christians' support for Donald Trump. It sheds light on the ways in which religious organizations, political rhetoric, and cultural symbols have been used to reinforce existing power structures and perpetuate inequality. The book serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of the relationships between religion, politics, and society.

Weight: 338g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030965525
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022