294. TNE TALKS: Introducing the Ministers of Propaganda

In this episode, Tim sits down with Scott M. Coley, author of the book,  Ministers of Propaganda, and they discuss the concept of legitimizing narratives that are used to justify social arrangements that benefit white evangelicals. Takeaways Legitimizing narratives are stories that justify social arrangements and hierarchies. White evangelicals have used the Bible as a source of legitimizing narratives to justify social arrangements that benefit them. The curse of Ham is an example of a legitimizing narrative used to justify race-based chattel slavery and racial segregation. The hermeneutics of legitimization is an approach to biblical interpretation that consistently produces readings of the text that justify the reader's preferred social arrangements. Understanding and challenging these narratives is important for promoting justice and equality. Legitimizing narratives are used to justify and perpetuate harmful ideologies. The defense of slavery and gender hierarchy are examples of self-defeating narratives that appropriate the very ideals they undermine. There is a tension between conservative ideals of family values and fiscal policies. Propaganda plays a significant role in shaping public opinion and can be used to manipulate and control narratives. It is important to critically examine the narratives we encounter and strive for a more just and inclusive approach to interpreting scripture and engaging in politics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Announcement 04:07 Introduction to Scott M. Coley and His Book 'Ministers of Propaganda' 10:21 How White Evangelicals Justify Social Arrangements 26:43 The Curse of Ham: A Historical Example of a Legitimizing Narrative 29:38 The Hermeneutics of Legitimization 31:05 Challenging Legitimizing Narratives 31:35 Unpacking Legitimizing Narratives and Harmful Ideologies 39:35 The Tension Between Conservative Family Values and Fiscal Policies 55:22 The Role of Propaganda in Shaping Public Opinion 01:00:43 The Need for Critical Examination of Narratives 01:02:11 Striving for a Just and Inclusive Approach to Scripture and Politics Scott's Book | Ministers of Propaganda: Truth, Power, and the Ideology of the Religious Right Scott's Instagram | @scott_m_coley Scott's X | @scott_m_coley ______________ Come to the LIVE EVENT in Austin, TX | Democracy at Risk REGISTER TO VOTE If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here! Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT) Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center. We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices