Review: 'Jesus and John Wayne' by Kristin Kobes Du Mez

Kristin Kobes Du Mez's book, 'Jesus and John Wayne,' has sparked a lot of interest in the academic community with its bold claims about the alignment between white evangelicalism and Donald Trump. In this review, we'll take a closer look at Du Mez's analytical tools and how she uses them to support her thesis.

According to Mari Matsuda, intersectionality is not just about descriptive labels but also refers to statuses of power or oppression. When applying intersectional analysis to Du Mez's work, it becomes clear that the author is concerned with power dynamics. In 'Jesus and John Wayne,' Du Mez uses evangelical history as a narrative framework to insert her ideology, which has led some readers to assume that the book is a historical reconstruction.

However, upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that Du Mez's approach is more subjective than objective. She employs non-traditional analytical tools to support her argument that white evangelicals have traded traditional notions of Christianity for a violent, patriarchal, nationalistic, and masculine faith – what she calls a 'false' faith.

Du Mez's main contention is that this shift in evangelical theology led naturally to the rise of Donald Trump as a presidential candidate. While some may agree with her analysis, others may find it problematic. The author's use of non-traditional analytical tools raises questions about the validity of her conclusions.

Overall, 'Jesus and John Wayne' offers a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between white evangelicalism and politics. Whether or not readers agree with Du Mez's thesis, the book is sure to spark important discussions about power dynamics, ideology, and the role of religion in public life.

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