It Has to Be Read. • Money, Lies and God by Katherine Stewart
Feb 28, 2025
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Katherine Stewart is an author and expert on the intersection of faith and politics, known for her works like 'The Power Worshippers.' In this insightful discussion, she delves into the troubling nexus of religious nationalism and democracy, critiquing extremist movements. They explore how propaganda shapes political landscapes and the rise of authoritarianism. Stewart highlights the role of wealthy funders in anti-liberal movements and draws parallels between global religious authoritarianism, emphasizing its impact on American governance and social issues.
The anti-democratic movement in the U.S. unites various factions rejecting Enlightenment principles, threatening foundational democratic values.
Disinformation and propaganda are utilized by movement leaders to manipulate public perception, promoting a narrative where truth becomes irrelevant.
The attack on public education aims to replace secular institutions with religious schools, shaping educational narratives to support conservative ideologies.
Deep dives
The Rise of Anti-Democratic Movements
A significant concern is the emergence of an anti-democratic movement in the United States, characterized by diverse but united factions that reject Enlightenment principles. This movement consists of various groups that, while sometimes in conflict, are united in their desire to undermine democratic values. They promote the idea that the U.S. is founded on specific religious and cultural identities rather than equality and justice for all. Their rhetoric often frames democracy as ineffective, suggesting that an authoritarian leader could better serve the needs of the nation.
Manipulation Through Disinformation
This anti-democratic movement thrives on disinformation and propaganda, using fear to manipulate the public and sow division. Leaders of this movement engage in creating a narrative where truth is irrelevant, promoting lies that serve their agenda. Disinformation separates supporters from factual realities, making them more susceptible to control. This strategy undermines accountability and reveals a nihilistic approach that discards truth for power.
Education as a Battleground
Public education is a focal point for this movement, as it seeks to replace secular institutions with religious and ideological schools. The campaign against public education is grounded in the belief that it promotes secularism, which they label as harmful. Efforts are underway to redirect public funding toward private religious schools, undermining the very foundation of educational inclusivity. This strategy aims to create a landscape where conservative ideologies dominate educational frameworks and narratives.
Authoritarian Alliances and Cultural Shifts
Internationally, there is a growing alliance between authoritarian regimes and ultra-conservative religious movements, showcasing a global trend of cronyistic kleptocracy. Leaders such as Putin, Orban, and Trump utilize religious figures to legitimize their rule and distract from their authoritarian actions. This partnership fosters a shared narrative of nationalism that often ignores democratic principles. The consequences of this collaboration pose significant threats, as it reveals a coordinated effort against liberal and democratic ideals across the globe.
The Role of Media in Addressing Disinformation
In the face of rampant disinformation, the media's responsibility is to uphold the truth and hold those in power accountable. Engaging accurately with the facts while confronting the political abnormalities that arise is crucial for fostering public awareness. The media must emphasize the negative impacts of disinformation on democracy and societal well-being. Moreover, it should encourage critical thinking among citizens to discern lies from truths and point out how elite manipulation affects everyday lives.
Frank Schaeffer In Conversation with Katherine Stewart, exploring her work and the themes of her book, "Money, Lies and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy”
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