Christian Fundamentalists And The US-Eurasian Policy Cover Image

Fundamentalističke hrišćanske zajednice i politika SAD prema Evroazijskom regionu
Christian Fundamentalists And The US-Eurasian Policy

Author(s): Miroljub Jevtić
Subject(s): Social Sciences
Published by: Универзитет у Нишу
Keywords: Christian fundamentalists; USA; Eurasia; Iran; Middle East; Israel

Summary/Abstract: It is the geo-economic approach that dominates the analysis of the problems related to Eurasia, especially of the Palestinian crisis. The geo-economic approach is very important indeed, especially in its consideration of oil. Yet, another approach is of great importance, that of religion. When religion is discussed in the Eurasian context it is Islam that is mostly taken into consideration. Another factor is neglected: the influence of certain Christian communities and movements on the behavior of the US in that region. This was especially evident during the terms of George Bush the Younger. Christian fun- damentalist organizations very much influence his policies. They believe that the pres- ervation of Israel is the condition without which the Second Coming of Jesus Christ won't come to pass. According to them, in order for Christ to return, Jews from around the globe must move to Israel, and in order for the Jews to move to Israel it is neces- sary to ensure peace and prosperity for the state of Israel. Therefore, the followers of that theology demand from the Administration to unconditionally support the survival of Israel. Among them are especially prominent the followers of the teaching of John Nelson Derby (1800-1882). His, and the teachings of similar charismatic religious leaders strongly influenced the election of George Bush to the US Presidency. Therefore the policy of George Bush toward Eurasia, and especially regarding the Middle Eastern conflict has been, to a large extent, inspired by such Christian teachings. Iran is an in- separable part of these considerations. This is why the policy of the US toward Iran is based, in many of its aspects, in accordance with the beliefs of the followers of such Christian teachings.

  • Issue Year: 2010
  • Issue No: 01
  • Page Range: 265-274
  • Page Count: 10
  • Language: English