Author and journalist Katherine Stewart discusses religious nationalism and the impact on public schools. They explore the rise of Christian nationalism, the challenges in investigative journalism, and the process of adapting a book into a film. The conversation highlights the need to support constitutional principles and public education in the face of these threats.
Religious nationalism in America manipulates followers for political gain, prioritizing power over genuine religious values.
The religious nationalist movement creates information silos to disseminate disinformation and maintain control, hindering factual challenges.
Deep dives
The Founding of Good News Club and Concerns Over Religious Indoctrination in Public Schools
The podcast discusses the origin story of the Good News Club in a public elementary school in Santa Barbara and the concerns raised by journalist Catherine Stewart regarding its impact on young children. Stewart shares how the club, claiming to offer non-denominational Bible study, led to instances of religious bigotry and confusion among students, highlighting the club's indoctrination tactics and divisive effects on school communities.
Political Power and Religious Nationalism in America
The episode delves into the intertwining of religious nationalism and political power in America, challenging the notion of standing for 'family values' within the religious right. Stewart exposes how the movement, instead of promoting compassion and inclusivity, aims to manipulate followers for political gain, emphasizing the movement's focus on reinforcing power structures rather than genuine religious principles.
Disinformation and Control through Information Silos
Stewart uncovers the role of disinformation and conspiracy theories within the religious nationalist movement, highlighting how leaders strategically manipulate followers by restricting access to diverse information sources. By creating information silos, the movement can easily disseminate false narratives and maintain control over individuals, fostering a culture resistant to factual challenges.
The Shift Towards Charter Schools and Disparaging Public Education
The discussion touches on the growth of charter schools run by individuals with right-wing ideologies, posing a threat to public education and democratic values. Stewart critiques the diversion of public funds to charter schools influenced by conservative agendas, which erode the foundation of public education and contribute to economic disparities. She advocates for united efforts to defend public schools and combat the assault on educational integrity.
Author and journalist Katherine Stewart joins us today to discuss her reporting on religious nationalism, as well as the organization and structure behind these efforts, and what we can do in the face of it all.