535 | Ross Douthat: Why You Should Be Religious & the Rise of the Post-Christian Right
Feb 11, 2025
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Ross Douthat, a New York Times columnist and author of "Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious," delves into the importance of faith in America today. He argues that a resurgence of religious belief may be on the horizon, especially as the post-Christian right gains traction. Douthat also addresses the evolving spiritual landscapes shaped by populism and secularism, examines the relationship between wokeness and traditional faith, and speculates on how modern societal dynamics could reshape beliefs in the coming decades.
The potential resurgence of religious belief among younger generations indicates a cultural curiosity towards spirituality beyond traditional atheism.
The evolution of the American Right reveals a tension between secular populism and underlying religious narratives, influencing future conservative ideologies.
Deep dives
The Rise of Religious Sentiment
A notable trend discussed is the potential shift in American society towards a more religious outlook over the next few decades. With the decline of new atheism, exemplified by figures like Richard Dawkins, a sense of revived interest in religion is emerging among younger generations. This shift can be observed in the cultural curiosity towards various religious traditions, as even secular individuals express interest in exploring their spiritual roots. For example, many young people now reflect on religious practices, like Judaism, and consider them not merely cultural artifacts but sources of deeper meaning in their lives.
Post-Religious Right and Political Realignment
The conversation highlights a complex evolution of the American Right, particularly the emergence of a post-religious right during the Trump era. This new political landscape showcases a departure from traditional religious conservatism towards more secular ideologies influenced by populism and technological advancements. Douthat argues that while wokeness and populism represent secular movements, they are still tied to underlying religious narratives shaped by previous generations. This tension suggests that traditional religious forces may continue influencing the right, potentially leading to a resurgence of religious ideologies within conservative politics.
The Evolving Nature of Spirituality
In contemporary society, there is a notable rise in alternative spiritual practices that deviate from traditional organized religions. This trend is reflected in the fascination with concepts like astrology, tarot, and even psychedelics as tools for spiritual exploration. Individuals are increasingly seeking personal connections to the divine or spiritual beings, rather than adhering to established religious doctrines. The podcast notes that while these new forms of spirituality may not represent conventional faith, they signal a deep-seated human desire for connection, transcendence, and understanding beyond material existence.
Challenges Facing the Left in Moral Frameworks
The left's struggle to articulate a coherent moral framework amidst changes in society was another key point discussed. Douthat points out that liberal reactions to figures like Steve Bannon reveal a lack of a deep-rooted belief system among modern liberals, who often oscillate between various political ideologies without a consistent vision for the future. The conversation suggests that this state of flux directly impacts the left's ability to engage effectively in political discourse and to address the existential challenges posed by contemporary issues such as technology and social justice. Ultimately, the left's current predicament reflects a broader crisis of identity and purpose, necessitating a reevaluation of its foundational beliefs.
Ross Douthat, New York Times columnist and author of Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious, returns to The Realignment. Marshall and Ross discuss the case for serious religious belief in a secularized America, the rise of the post-Christian right, why America could swing in an increasingly religious direction over the next few decades, Ross's recent interview with Steve Bannon on tech's relationship to the right.
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