Dangerous Curiosity: Reflections on Gothard, the Duggars and “Shiny Happy People”
Description
How does a man become a leading authority on relationships and parenting, yet has never married or fathered a child?
In this week's episode I reflect on the Amazon Prime Documentary Series "Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets." Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar were reality TV stars on TLC's hit show "19 and Counting." Their odd lifestyle with so many children drew millions of viewers. In the process of telling their story, we learn about the cult-like IBLP and it's leader, Bill Gothard.
It's tempting to label this group as an outlier--an extreme example of what male headship can do if it's taken too far. But I would argue the IBLP and stories shared in "Shiny Happy People" are not far from mainstream evangelical culture.
Lastly, I share my thoughts on separating the scriptures from systems of oppression in evangelical culture through humility and curiosity.
Let me know your thoughts at www.relevantfaithjourney.com
Resources used in this episode:
Buzzfeed article that recaps Josh Duggar’s trial and explains that his prison sentence was extended. https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/juliareinstein/josh-duggar-federal-prison-sentence-extended
Washington Post article from 2016 that reports on Gothard’s abuse accusations. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2016/01/06/new-charges-allege-religious-leader-who-has-ties-to-the-duggars-sexually-abused-women/
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