Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right

Book Review

Randall Balmer's Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right is an eye-opening and meticulously researched work that deftly unravels the intricate history behind the Religious Right's emergence in America. Balmer, a respected historian and professor of American religious history, delivers a compelling narrative that challenges widely held assumptions about the origins of this powerful political movement.

At the heart of Balmer's book is the revelation that the rise of the Religious Right was not initially fueled by opposition to abortion, as commonly believed, but rather by a reaction to the civil rights movement and efforts to maintain racial segregation. Balmer effectively debunks the false narrative that the movement's primary concern was the moral opposition to abortion. He traces the true roots back to the defense of segregated schools and opposition to government intervention in racial matters, providing a clear and persuasive account of how this agenda was later repackaged into a moral crusade against abortion to broaden its appeal and consolidate political power.

One of the most striking elements of Balmer's analysis is his documentation of the pivotal role that key figures and organizations played in reshaping the narrative. Leaders such as Jerry Falwell and organizations like the Moral Majority initially rallied around the cause of preserving segregated private schools, only later shifting their public focus to abortion. This strategic pivot, Balmer argues, was essential in galvanizing a broader base of support and aligning the movement with the Republican Party, thereby cementing its influence in American politics.

Balmer's writing is engaging and accessible, making complex historical and political developments understandable to a broad audience. He utilizes many primary sources, including speeches, articles, and internal memos, to support his arguments and bring the story to life. His meticulous attention to detail and balanced analysis ensure that the book is not just an indictment but a thoughtful exploration of the motives and strategies that shaped the movement.

Recent articles from The Washington Post and The New York Times underscore the relevance of Balmer's historical analysis. They provide contemporary examples of conservative evangelicals' ongoing influence. For instance, a 2018 article in The New York Times highlighted how conservative evangelicals continue to wield significant influence in shaping political discourse, particularly around issues like immigration and religious freedom. This echoes Balmer's point about the movement's ability to adapt and reframe its agenda to address current societal concerns while maintaining its underlying ideological commitments.

Another Washington Post article explored the growing tension within evangelical circles over issues of race and justice. This internal conflict mirrors the historical roots of the Religious Right that Balmer describes. The article notes how younger evangelicals are increasingly challenging the older generation's positions on race and social justice, calling for a more inclusive and equitable approach that aligns more closely with the teachings of Jesus. This shift reflects the movement's ongoing struggle to reconcile its foundational issues with contemporary calls for justice and equality.

One of Bad Faith's most powerful aspects is its ability to provoke reflection on the intersection of religion and politics. Balmer's work invites readers to critically examine how religious rhetoric can be manipulated to serve political ends and the consequences of such manipulation for faith communities and broader society. Headlines from The Washington Post and The New York Times underscore this point, illustrating how the legacy of religious rights continues to shape political and social dynamics in the United States.

Randall Balmer's thorough research and insightful analysis provide a crucial corrective to the prevailing narratives about the origins of the Religious Right, revealing the deep-seated issues of race and segregation that lie at its foundation. This book is a significant contribution to the field and a compelling call for greater honesty and integrity in the discourse surrounding religion and politics. The contemporary reflections from The Washington Post articles further illustrate the enduring impact of the movement Balmer so expertly dissects, making this work not only historically significant but also highly relevant to today's political and social landscape.