Maddie Williams (B.A., international studies and political science, ’19; M.A., international and area studies, Oklahoma, ’21) was recently accepted into the public policy PhD program at the University of Texas at Austin Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs. She credits her academic pursuits to her time at the U of A, where she studied with Faculty across the disciplines. As an international studies student she researched conflict and peace. Meanwhile, Honors faculty in history and religion faculty like Dean Lynda Coon and Dr. John Treat sparked her interest in analyzing religious history. Together, she formulated an interdisciplinary focus that will guide her doctoral research.
Williams’s doctoral research will focus on exploring the rise of Christian nationalist movements in Russia and the United States. According to her, both nations have seen the emergence of religious nationalist movements characterized by a fusion of religious and national identity. In the United States, this is exemplified by the rise of the Christian Right, and in Russia, by the increasing role of the Russian Orthodox Church. Williams asserts that these commonalities suggest that the two countries are struggling with issues of national identity and the role of religion in society. Additionally, the study of these trends offers insight into larger questions about the legitimacy of political power, nationalism and religion.
For Williams, understanding the beliefs and motivations behind both of these groups can help the public and policymakers combat these ideologies. Researching far-right movements exposes how nationalist groups might co-opt religious elements to advance their own agendas and justify violence. Research can then be used to help promote tolerance and social unity.
As she prepares for her next educational journey in the fall, Williams offers some important tips from her experience on how to research especially heavy and difficult subjects.
Engaging with heavy topics can be challenging. Still, it is essential to do so to understand the dynamics of various ideologies and to work towards promoting tolerance, respect, equality and equity. There are several strategies that I have found to be helpful as a student and researcher while engaging with this sort of weighty material:
1. Seek out diverse perspectives: When studying religious nationalism, seeking out various perspectives and sources is essential. This can help to avoid echo chambers and confirmatory biases, providing a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the beliefs and motivations of these groups;
2. Develop critical thinking skills: Critical thinking skills are vital when engaging with heavy topics like far-right religious movements. Students should learn how to evaluate evidence and arguments critically and avoid logical fallacies and other common errors in reasoning;
3. Practice empathy and compassion: While it may be difficult to understand or empathize with the beliefs of these nationalist movements, it is crucial to approach this work with compassion and empathy for all people involved. This can include seeking to understand the root causes of these beliefs and engaging in dialogue with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. While this is important, it is also critical to maintain objectivity, avoid emotional reactions, and remain focused on the evidence and presented arguments;
4. Use language carefully: Language is a powerful tool that can shape our understanding of complex issues. Students should be mindful of the language they use when discussing these heavy topics, avoiding stigmatizing or dehumanizing language that can reinforce harmful stereotypes and biases;
5. Take care of your emotional well-being: Engaging with heavy topics can be emotionally challenging, and it is important to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. This can involve taking breaks from research, talking with friends or mentors, or engaging in activities that promote relaxation and well-being.
It is important to note that engaging with hateful beliefs and rhetoric can be emotionally challenging and potentially triggering for some students. Students should set boundaries around what they are comfortable researching and discussing and seek support and resources as needed.