THE FAMILY: A Review

Gather 'round, brethren. The Family is a compelling account of power in America and how it has been shaped by religion. It makes a compelling case of how the Christian right can be neither Christian nor right.

Journalist Sharlet chronicles the history and ideas advanced by the elite Christian fundamentalist group called "the Family" at the highest levels of government during the past half century. Through its White House and congressional connections, the Family has influenced the deployment of US power, especially in foreign policy during the Cold War and beyond. Led by the Machiavellian Doug Coe, the group has operated clandestinely in the corridors of power unhindered by democratic accountability, and serves as an uncomfortable mirror of the current administration's (Obama) more overt power grab in the appointing of czars to rule American public life without any accountability and approval from the Senate.

This is a complex and sensitive subject, the intersection of Christian fundamentalist beliefs with the American political system, but Sharlet puts the Family within an historical context, and how relates it to the secular strains of American life. Starlet relates his own personal experiences at Ivanwald, the "retreat" for the elite fundamentalists, those who want to utilize "Jesus" -the tough, muscular Jesus, certainly not the "turn the other cheek" Jesus - to further specific political objectives, as well as the general ones, of expanding the influence of "free-markets" and the American empire.

Next, Sharlet goes back and places the fundamentalist movement in an American historical context, starting in the early 1700's, with the preacher Jonathan Edwards, author of "The Great Awaking," and his relationship with Abigail Hutchinson. He then moves in the early 1800's, and the character of Charles Finney. Slowly, Sharlet lays out his theme that religious fundamentalism has been one of the essential strains of the American historical experience. Finally, the book covers the 20th century and how Abram Vereide (head of the Family) used fundamentalism in his fight against the labor movement of the `30's, and in particular, Harry Bridges of the Longshoremen's union.

The book is densely written - not a quick read! - and there are some poorly edited sections that make a difficult subject even harder to understand. However, as you read, you will be struck with the thought that Sharlet is actually describing a cult that revolves around the idol of Jesus. Most of us encounter elements of The Family on a regular basis. Pay attention to your local mega-church; most of them espouse Family-like doctrine such as convincing religious and devout people that they should vote for candidates that are inimical to their economic self interest.

BIBLIO SAYS: Recommended.

Companion Read: Rules For Radicals by Saul Alinksy.