Stephen Wolfe - Is Christian Nationalism an Option?
Nov 15, 2023
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Stephen Wolfe, a country scholar, discusses Christian nationalism, its application in different regions, and the tension between populism and elitism on the right. They also explore the relationship between ethnicity and Christian nationalism, the conflict between classes and cultural dominance, ethnic tensions, and the struggle for identity. Additionally, they discuss the book 'Demon in Democracy', dissident politics, and national hospitality ethics.
Christian nationalism involves preserving and promoting a Christian heritage among a specific people who consider themselves a Christian nation.
Different states in the US can govern themselves differently in terms of religion based on the principles of federalism.
Cultivating the will to act and being comfortable with disparities is crucial for Christians and conservatives to preserve their Christian heritage and resist the mainstream regime.
Deep dives
Christian nationalism: An Introduction
Christian nationalism, as presented in the book by Stephen Wolf, refers to a movement that combines the principles of nationalism and Christianity. It involves a collective identity of a people who are self-aware and self-conscious of their group identity. Christian nationalism is about preserving and promoting a Christian heritage and faith among a specific people who consider themselves a Christian nation. It goes beyond simply upholding Christian values and encompasses the worship of God in Christ as the highest Christian good. This concept is not exclusive to the United States but can apply to any Christian people group around the world.
Christian nationalism within the United States
In the United States, the concept of Christian nationalism raises questions about how the entire country or specific states can be considered Christian nations. Within the American political tradition, there is room for different states to have different approaches to religion and the church. Originally, individual states had the power to have their own civil action or government relating to religion. However, this has been restricted since the jurisprudence of World War II. The author suggests that there is potential for different states in the US to govern themselves differently in terms of religion, based on the principles of federalism. While there are regional differences in the US that might challenge the idea of a unified Christian nation, the idea of multiple Christian nations within the country is possible within the federalist constitutional tradition.
Cultivating the will to act and embracing disparities
A crucial aspect of Christian nationalism is cultivating the will to act and being comfortable with disparities. The author emphasizes the need for Christians and conservatives to have the will to resist the mainstream regime and to be assertive in preserving their Christian heritage. He suggests that strong leaders at the state level, like Ron DeSantis, who can both inspire and lead the populist base, are needed. It is important to support leaders who can govern effectively and challenge the existing power structures. The author also discusses the tendency to rely on the contradictions of the left to effect change and highlights the need for conservatives to take responsibility and not solely rely on the collapse of the left. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of acting in the face of social scorn and being comfortable with disparities in order to preserve a Christian nation.
The Importance of Common Culture and History in Ethnicity
This podcast episode delves into the concept of ethnicity and its relation to common culture and history. The speaker argues that ethnicity is not solely based on ancestry or blood relations, but primarily on shared cultural experiences. They give examples like World War II and the Revolutionary War, which served as unifying events for different ethnic groups in the United States. The episode highlights the need for a positive common sentiment and positive regard for oneself as a people in order to foster a strong national identity.
The Conflict Between Upper and Middle Classes in the United States
The podcast explores the idea that there is a class-based conflict in the United States between the upper stratum elite and the middle class. The speaker suggests that the elite tend to form a coalition with the lower classes, waging war against the middle class. This coalition is built on promises, ideologies, and a common grievance against the middle class, with the straight white male often being portrayed as the oppressor. The episode raises concerns about the erosion of societal stability and highlights the potential consequences of this conflict in various aspects of society, including the economy and cultural dominance.
We speak about the theory and practice of a state organized according to Christian principles, which flavor and intensity of Christianity may apply, how to advocate for a religious solution in an era of dwindling faith, and much more.
Stephen Wolfe is a country scholar at Wolfeshire in central North Carolina where he lives with his wife and four children. He recently finished a postdoctoral fellowship at Princeton University's James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions. Wolfe is co-host of the Ars Politica podcast and has written for Mere Orthodoxy, First Things, Chronicles Magazine, and History of Political Thought. He is also the author of “The Case for Christian Nationalism”.
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