In this book, Kristin Kobes du Mez explores the deep connection between white evangelicalism and conservatism in the United States. She argues that while Evangelicals have traditionally claimed to uphold Christian values, they have instead become a powerful force for division and hatred. Through an examination of figures like Jerry Falwell, Pat Robertson, and Ronald Reagan, du Mez shows how white evangelicals have perverted Christianity to serve their own political ends. The result has been a fractured nation where racism and bigotry are rampant. Jesus and John Wayne is essential reading for anyone hoping to understand America’s current political landscape.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for people who want to understand the deep connection between white evangelicalism and conservatism in the United States. It’s also for those interested in how white evangelicals have perverted Christianity to serve their own political ends, leading to a fractured nation with rampant racism and bigotry.
Pros :
- Du Mez provides a well-researched and insightful look at the history of white evangelicalism in America.
- She offers a clear analysis of how this movement has corrupted Christianity to serve their own political interests.
- The book is accessible and interesting, even for those who are not familiar with theology or politics.
Cons :
- The author spends too much time discussing figures that are no longer alive or relevant.
- The book is overly partisan and does not offer a balanced perspective.
- The author’s biases often obscure the facts she presents.
Learn more about the author
Kristin Kobes du Mez is an associate professor of history at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her research focuses on the intersection of religion and politics in the United States, with a particular interest in evangelicalism. She is the author of several articles and book chapters on this topic, and her work has been featured in venues such as The New York Times, The Christian Science Monitor, and Religion News Service.
Reader Reviews
“Kristin Kobes du Mez has written a tour de force on the intersection of white evangelicalism and conservatism in America. Timely, insightful, and well-researched, her book is an important contribution to our understanding of the roots of today’s political divisions. Essential reading for anyone interested in American politics.”
“Jesus and John Wayne is an important book – one that should be read by Christians and non-Christians alike. Kobes du Mez provides a clear, insightful analysis of the role white evangelicals have played in shaping American politics over the past few decades. This is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how we got to where we are today.”
“Kristin Kobes du Mez has written an incisive and timely account of the rise of white evangelicalism in America. This is a well-researched book that makes a powerful case for how evangelicals have twisted Christianity to serve their own political agenda, with disastrous consequences for American society. Anyone who wants to understand the roots of our current political polarization should read this important book.”
“An excellent, well-researched examination of the complex and troubling relationship between white evangelicalism and conservatism in America…Du Mez has crafted a superbly written and powerful book that should be read by everyone interested in understanding the current state of our nation.”
