The podcast is back! In this episode, L. Benjamin Rolsky (@LBRolsky), a professor and author, discusses his book "The Rise and Fall of the Religious Left." Using Norman Lear as a case study, Rolsky explains his work on the intersection of religion, politics, and popular culture since the 1970s.
He critiques the term "Christian nationalism," arguing it emerged post-2016 and oversimplifies conservative activism. Rolsky also discusses the complexities of evangelicalism and its political leanings, noting the influence of media and marketing. He emphasizes the need for robust academic analysis and critical thinking in understanding contemporary political dynamics.
This episode can be heard here on Substack, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
This interview references two books worth reading in addition to Dr. Rolsky’s book: Nicole Hemmer’s “Messengers of The Right,” a History of conservative media in America, and Kevin Kruse’s “One Nation Under God: How Corporate America Invented Christian America” a look at how corporate conservatives infiltrated Christian politics.
Nicole Hemmer has previously appeared on the podcast, and you can listen to her interview below:
Spotify:
Apple Podcasts:
If you enjoy this conversation, please let me know, write a review, and share it with a friend!
-KJW
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