Ministers of Propaganda: Truth, Power, and the Ideology of the Religious Right

Scott Coley examines how the religious right uses propaganda and offers strategies for Christians to resist it. He argues that the perception of evangelicalism as inherently Republican reflects successful propaganda efforts. In this volume, Coley analyzes the merger of evangelicalism with right-wing politics, examining the rhetoric and biblical interpretation that support what he calls Christo-authoritarianism—an ideology that applies Christian theology to authoritarian political goals. Coley's historically grounded analysis challenges evangelical positions on issues such as creation science and female leadership, demonstrating these are not fixed doctrines but shaped by powerful religious leaders. He explains that people accept propaganda through motivated reasoning, particularly when self-interest is involved, which can distort Christian teachings. Coley argues that returning to Jesus's command to love one's neighbor as oneself would undermine the effectiveness of right-wing propaganda. The book addresses evangelical support for racism, misogyny, and other positions Coley characterizes as unchristian, offering analysis and perspective for readers concerned about these trends.