The Great Paradox: Evangelical and GOP Values Echoing Unlikely Philosophies
In a fascinating and somewhat revealing shift, certain factions within the Evangelical community and the GOP have begun to reflect values that appear more aligned with philosophies like Social Darwinism, Ayn Rand’s Objectivism as understood through her Atlas Society, and even elements of LaVeyan Satanism.
This alignment stands in stark contrast to the traditional values commonly associated with Judeo-Christian ethics and mainstream American ideals.
The Allure of Objectivism: Capitalism as a Virtue
Ayn Rand’s philosophy of Objectivism, a philosophy of rational self-interest and laissez-faire capitalism, has found traction within certain sections of the GOP and the Evangelical community. The champions of free-market capitalism, some within these groups, seem to echo Rand’s belief in the virtue of selfishness and the morality of rational self-interest.
The Bible, however, offers a more nuanced view on wealth. It cautions against the perils of greed, as seen in Proverbs 15:27 and Matthew 6:24. Can an earnest Christian reconcile their faith with the pursuit of personal gain at the potential expense of others? This significant contradiction poses a challenging question for those straddling the lines between their religious faith and economic ideology.
“Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live.”
Proverbs 15:27 (NIV)
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
Matthew 6:24 (NIV)
Social Darwinism: The Fittest Survive
Next, we turn to the principles of Social Darwinism, a concept advocating the survival of the fittest in human society. An echo of these ideas can be found within the GOP and Evangelical community’s rhetoric, particularly in discussions concerning welfare and healthcare.
The narrative of individual responsibility frequently overshadows the Christian ethos of communal care and the love for one’s neighbor as oneself, as stated in Leviticus 19:18. The disconnect between these values opens up a space for introspection and reconsideration of the values we uphold as individuals and a society.
LaVeyan Satanism: Echoes in Contemporary Rhetoric
Interestingly, certain tenets of LaVeyan Satanism, such as egoism and self-preservation, are reflected in the rhetoric of these groups. The Bible, however, emphasizes the virtues of selflessness, care for the poor, and protection of the least among us, as seen in Matthew 25:40.
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'”
Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
While this comparison is by no means to suggest an intentional alignment with Satanism, it serves to highlight the divergent values driving contemporary political and religious discussions.
The American Ethos: E Pluribus Unum
The values traditionally associated with America—unity and collective progress (E pluribus unum – Out of many, one), stand in contrast to the hyper-individualistic ethos seen in certain pockets of the Evangelical and GOP communities.
Moreover, the influence of powerful interest groups like the NRA on the GOP, despite rising gun violence, further illuminates the prioritization of self-interest over communal safety. This trend leans closer to Rand’s Objectivism than the biblical call for peacemaking, as indicated in Matthew 5:9.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Matthew 5:9 (NIV):
Conclusion: An Urgent Call for Introspection
It is important to note that not all Evangelicals or Republicans subscribe to these philosophies. Many diligently work to reconcile their faith or political beliefs with caring for their neighbors and the broader community.
As we navigate these complex intersections of religion, politics, and ethics, perhaps the greatest question we need to ask ourselves and our leaders is: Do our actions serve only the “fittest” among us, or are we working towards a society that uplifts and cares for all its members?
Perhaps more than ever, it’s essential to critically examine the values driving our political and religious discussions. Whether they are Judeo-Christian, American, or otherwise, we must strive for consistency in our values and actions, ensuring that they are always guided by compassion, justice, and love for all people.
Works Cited
- “Ayn Rand’s Philosophy of Objectivism.” The Atlas Society. Link
- “Social Darwinism.” Wikipedia. Link
- “Mammon.” Wikipedia. Link
- “Moloch.” Wikipedia. Link
- Rampell, Catherine. “What drives Donald Trump? Greed, and greed alone.” Washington Post. Link
- Ali, Shirin, and Schnell, Mychael. “NRA contributions underscore grip in GOP.” The Hill. Link
- Gramlich, John. “Gun deaths among U.S. children and teens rose 50% in two years.” Pew Research Center. Link
- “LaVeyan Satanism.” Wikipedia. Link
- The Holy Bible, New International Version.
