Backwards Christian Soldiers: The Role of the Religious Right on the Militarization of U.S. Foreign Policy in the Post-9/11 Era

Abstract

Beginning in the 1970s, the Religious Right has become an increasingly significant player in U.S. foreign policy. This paper examines several themes relating to the movement's rise to political power, such as its increased political mobilization through strategic alliances and the merging of religiously infused ideology with nationalistic ideals in the post-9/11 era. Throughout the paper, the author discusses the sociopolitical implications of these themes, concluding that such militaristic, right-wing fundamentalism constitutes a dangerous brand of bad theology.