Alumkal’s text is about the beliefs, politics, and propaganda of the Evangelical Right in American Christianity [...] Paranoia is the leitmotif that links the 4 chapters of this book.
An important and timely book.
American Journal of Sociology:
Alumkal pulls no punches here… Alumkal’s book deserves a place in the book collections of scholars of the Christian Right... There is much here that furthers our knowledge of a complicated and controversial political movement
Paranoid Scienceoffers valuable insights about the ability of religious and scientific interests to rally public support and potentially influence public policy. It will be of interestto sociologist who study religion, science, social movements and to those interested in any of the four historical episodes that organize the books empirical chapters.
Through extensive research, Alumkal provides a rich, nuanced, and detailed view of mid-20th-century American evangelicalisms right-wing political expression and its often dangerous impact on science in the service of the common good. His conclusions indicate that when such a powerful paranoia cannot be deescalated, it must be contained. Education and persuasion are the tools for change, and Alumkals book succeeds in both respects.
Alumkal shows that hostility toward science -- including a kind of fearful contempt toward scientists -- is fairly palpable.
Jerry Z. Park, Associate Professor of Sociology, Baylor University:
"A small but highly organized network of conservative Christians maintains a successful pseudo-scientific campaign to challenge established scientific topics including evolution, sexual orientation, bioethics, and climatology that they find threatening to their worldview. Alumkals unflinching critical analysis of their popular writings and educational media provides an excellent window into the political culture and theological motivations, mindsets and machinations within this movement. Fit for the times, Paranoid Science is engaging reading that elucidates the extent to which religious motivations can distort scientific inquiry for political ends.
Glenn Branch, Deputy Director, National Center for Science Education:
Paranoid Science is a reliable and insightful guide to the fever swamps of evangelical science denial. A gripping, disturbing, and important contribution.
Alumkals book is troubling and eye-opening.
Particularly in todays America, where science, religion, and politics seem so inflammatory, Alumkals calm voice of reason has much to offer. Recommended for all libraries.
Particularly in today's America, where science, religion, and politics seem so inflammatory, Alumkal's calm voice of reason has much to offer.
This is a volume for those who seek a better understanding of the USs contemporary cultural conflict.
