Evangelical Christian Nationalism and Substance Use Disorders in the US: Impacts on Vulnerable Populations and Opportunities for Increased Resiliency

Abstract

The intertwining of evangelical Christian nationalism with American politics and society has profound implications for the identification, treatment, and prevention of substance use disorders (SUDs). This paper examines how religiously influenced perspectives shape public health policies, contribute to stigmatization, and affect access to care for some of society’s most vulnerable individuals. By analyzing recent data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alongside the writings of journalists, scholars, and policy makers such as Michelle Goldberg, Chris Hedges, Rousas Rushdoony, Paul Weyrich, Pat Robertson, Jerry Falwell, Lance Wallnau, and Katherine Stewart, this study explores the intersection of charismatic Christian religious ideology and public health, with a focus on the vulnerabilities of marginalized populations.

Presenters

Andrew Ward
Visiting Assistant Professor, Political Science- International Development, Tulane University, Louisiana, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

The Politics of Religion

KEYWORDS

Addiction, Christian, Religious, Nationalism, SUD, Demons