

How Charisma Reveals Our Idols
Jun 3, 2025
Molly Worthen, an Associate Professor of History at UNC Chapel Hill and author of *Spellbound*, delves into the powerful role of charisma in shaping American history. She discusses how charisma transcends mere charm, revealing deeper human desires for control and moral meaning. Worthen connects past figures like Anne Hutchinson to contemporary leaders, exploring how their narratives influence societal beliefs. The conversation sheds light on the duality of charisma, its implications in politics and religion, and the potential dangers of intertwining spirituality with power.
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Political Debates as Religious Impulse
- The political debates today seem existentially and cosmically charged, far beyond mere policy discussions.
- This indicates the religious impulse is manifesting outside of traditional church settings in new ways.
Charisma as Moral Storytelling
- Charisma is not charm or personality but unveiling a hidden moral narrative.
- It invites followers to assume roles in a story oriented toward justice.
Faith Journey During Writing
- Molly became a Christian two and a half years ago while writing her book.
- She found support from the evangelical community who reached out after her story became public.