Fascism and Futurity: Psychic Conflict over the Child in the Philosophy of Religion

The philosophy of religion has extensively explored themes of futurity and fascism but has overlooked the control of children as a pivotal force in shaping political futurity. This panel examines Christian Nationalism as "pseudo-activity," where actions serve as substitute satisfactions, elevating themselves into ends in themselves (Adorno, 1968). Control of children becomes a substitute for wholeness of the self. Drawing on Todd McGowan's concept of political fantasy, panelists explore how Christian Nationalism uses oppressive systems through unconscious investments in the fantasy of the nuclear family. Christian Nationalists emphasize the nuclear family's importance, which involves the control and domination of women and children. While feminist theory has addressed religious ideology and patriarchal norms, these papers highlight the unique aspect of child control in Christian Nationalism. This panel offers a new direction in Theology and Continental Philosophy by investigating Chrisofascist control over children.