The Jesus Machine: How James Dobson, Focus on the Family, and Evangelical America Are Winning the Culture War

I am so glad I read this book. It is difficult for someone like me who believes that the intersection of religion and government is dangerous to the liberties I believe our country was founded on to understand why this movement acts in the way it does. This book helped me to see where they are coming from, without the divisive rhetoric that pervades most discussions of this topic. I still found the evangelical vision for America a frightening one, and one I do not support, but a little knowledge about the movement helps remind me that these are human beings with deeply held beliefs, however frightening I may find them.

Before reading this book, I expected that it would inevitably take sides on what has proven to be one of the most controversial issues in politics. I am pleased to report, however, that Gilgoff does an excellent job of keeping his own views and opinions (whatever they may be) out of the book, and instead relies on the facts he collected during extensive researching and interviewing. In addition, the book reads very well and flows smoothly; not at all like a textbook. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to learn more about the influence of religion in today's politics.

If you barely recognize the America we're living in and want to know how we got here, this book is revelatory. Gilgoff calmly and dispassionately explicates the rise to power of the religious right. The Moral Majority, the Christian Coalition, Focus on the Family are the showy vehicles--there's a whole lot more beneath the hood. Gilgoff has meticulously researched how congregations, pastors, think tanks, lobbiests, GOP operatives have combined into an awesomely effective political machine. This is the definitive how-done manual. And it's a great read too.

First let it be said that this book is not a criticism of Dr. Dobson, Focus on the Family, or Evangelical Christians. This book is an account of how Focus on the Family and Dr. Dobson have grown over the years. Dan Gilgoff offers insight to how the Movement has grown and changed from its origins, as well as Dobson's roots and how Dobson's radio broadcasts can influnce the American voter as it did in the last direction. Gilgoff has written a non partisan book which can be enjoyed by followers and adversaries. Great read for all followers of (or those interested in) Dobson and Focus on the Family, as well as Evangelicals (to learn more about Dobson) and anyone who is into politics (might be a good read for a poly sci class or perhaps a modern religions course)

This book is packed with information about how politics and religion intersect in today's politics. The unusual thing about the Jesus Machine is that Gilgoff doesn't seem to lean one way or the other. It seems like folks on both sides trust him and talk. That's cool. And it will be fun to watch what happens in the '08 elections now that I feel like I know so much more inside stuff.