"The Kids are Lovin' It"
Just saw Jesus Camp. Very solid documentary. While not totally unbiased, the lack of narration made for a more balanced perspective, and the completed documentary was apparently approved by the group filmed (or at least their leaders). (Ted Haggard has since disavowed it, but evidently no one else in the movie has objected to how they were portrayed.) On the one hand, the group of Pentecostals that were the subject of the movie really believe. It's emotionally powerful stuff. On the other hand, some of their beliefs don't make sense, even from a perspective of biblical literalism. Why should Christian fundamentalists be all about denying global warming, for example? It suggests other worrying beliefs beneath the surface (i.e. a sort of apocalyptic disregard for the environment, an impulsive (or even hateful) opposition to science).
Of course, it's unfair to say that the subjects of the movie represent all Evangelicals, but the movie didn't seem to suggest that. However, it did use the group as an apt example of the Evangelical Christian influence on right-wing politics (and vice versa).
Also, how the children are educated / indoctrinated is more than a little creepy. I'm a bit with Dawkins on that one. It's really easy to indoctrinate children, and cognitive dissonance is a powerful force. In some of the more emotional scenes, it's hard to tell if the children are having a positive spiritual experience or deeply suffering.
Dan, I suggest that you watch this movie. This time without jumping to hasty conclusions and cutting it off midway through.
Of course, it's unfair to say that the subjects of the movie represent all Evangelicals, but the movie didn't seem to suggest that. However, it did use the group as an apt example of the Evangelical Christian influence on right-wing politics (and vice versa).
Also, how the children are educated / indoctrinated is more than a little creepy. I'm a bit with Dawkins on that one. It's really easy to indoctrinate children, and cognitive dissonance is a powerful force. In some of the more emotional scenes, it's hard to tell if the children are having a positive spiritual experience or deeply suffering.
Dan, I suggest that you watch this movie. This time without jumping to hasty conclusions and cutting it off midway through.