Close encounters with the religious right

By Rob Boston

Book Description

For twelve years, author Rob Boston immersed himself in the world of the Religious Right, attending their gatherings, exploring their organizational centers, and engaging their leaders in public discourse. His methodical approach mirrors that of a field researcher studying a complex social phenomenon from within.

In this revealing examination, Boston shares the insights he gained from his extensive firsthand observations. He illuminates the core messages and underlying goals of this influential movement, offering readers a rare inside perspective on how religious conviction intersects with political activism in contemporary America.

The book explores critical questions about the balance between faith and governance in democratic society. Boston examines how Religious Right advocacy affects fundamental American principles, including the constitutional separation of church and state, individual privacy protections, and the broader concept of religious freedom for all citizens.

Through his direct encounters and careful documentation, Boston presents a nuanced portrait of a movement that continues to shape national conversations about morality, law, and civic life. His work provides valuable context for understanding how religious communities engage with political processes and influence public policy.

For readers seeking to comprehend the complex relationship between spiritual beliefs and democratic institutions, this book offers an informed perspective on one of America's most significant contemporary religious and political movements.