The Dispatch Podcast God and the Far Right | Interview: Mike Cosper
9 snips
Nov 10, 2025 In this insightful conversation, Mike Cosper, a senior contributor at Christianity Today and host of notable podcasts, explores the unsettling rise of extremism within young conservative Christianity. He delves into the influence of figures like Nick Fuentes and Tucker Carlson, discussing how cultural shifts and online anonymity contribute to ideological mass shootings. Cosper also analyzes the impact of Christian Zionism and the evolving political sentiments among evangelicals, reflecting on the future trajectory of the American church amidst these challenges.
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Unbundling Increases Identity Anxiety
- The “unbundling” of identity freed choices but increased anxiety and instability, especially for young people.
- Mike Cosper argues this identity fragmentation helps explain cultural drift and political radicalization among the young.
Mass Shootings Fueled By Online Mob Culture
- Recent mass shootings show political messaging and online mob validation rather than pure nihilism.
- Cosper links meme culture and anonymous online escalation to shooters seeking notoriety and ideological community.
Anonymity Removes Social Accountability
- Anonymous online communities lack social costs and accountability, enabling escalatory, violent rhetoric.
- Cosper contrasts that with in-person groups where friends would intervene and show care.
