Understanding the Rise of Evangelicals in Brazil and Their Political Influence

Understanding the Rise of Evangelicals in Brazil and Their Political Influence

In recent years, the evangelical movement in Brazil has gained significant political and social influence. This phenomenon raises questions about the nature of being evangelical and the factors that have led to their rise as a political force. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of the typical Brazilian evangelical, the theological changes that have shaped their political engagement, and the role of conservative values in their rise to power.

To understand the evangelical movement in Brazil, it is important to clarify what it means to be evangelical. According to Juliano Spyer, a researcher in religious studies, the focus of the religious experience for evangelicals is the individual believer's personal contact with God through the reading and interpretation of the Bible, as well as their active participation in evangelistic activities. In Brazil, the typical face of an evangelical is a young, black woman, with 58% of evangelicals being women, 59% being black or mixed-race, and over 60% falling between the ages of 14 and 44, according to a Datafolha survey in 2020.

So why have evangelicals become a political and social powerhouse only in the 21st century? According to sociologist José Luis Pérez Guadalupe, there are several important factors that have contributed to this transformation. The first factor is the realization among evangelical churches that it is valid to claim a legitimate place in society, defending religious freedom and acting as citizens imbued with the Christian message. The second factor is a significant theological shift. While in the past, the dominant mindset among evangelicals rejected involvement in "worldly" things like politics, viewing life as a waiting room for the second coming of Jesus Christ, the rise of postmillennialism in the 1990s brought about a change in perspective. Postmillennialism holds that the current millennium is a "time of harvest," where Protestants should actively work towards the enjoyment of life and the restoration of God's kingdom on Earth.

In addition to these factors, experts point to three influential theological frameworks that have shaped the political engagement of evangelicals in Brazil: the Prosperity Gospel, the Spiritual Warfare Theology, and the Dominion Theology. The Prosperity Gospel, prevalent in the neo-Pentecostal movement, emphasizes that conversion and religious practice will be rewarded by God with financial success. This doctrine encourages believers to act entrepreneurially to overcome life's adversities and achieve prosperity. It is important to note that part of the growth of evangelical churches can be attributed to the improvement in the living conditions of poorer Brazilians who join these denominations. This improvement includes an end to alcoholism and domestic violence associated with addiction, increased self-esteem, discipline for work, and greater investment in education and healthcare, among other benefits.

On the other hand, historical Protestantism, known for its austerity and focus on hard work and wealth creation, sees economic progress as a consequence of a disciplined life and the influence of the church in promoting formal education. The third factor identified by Guadalupe is related to politics. Traditional political parties and ideologies experienced a crisis, particularly with the decline of communism, leaving a void that evangelicals were well-positioned to fill. Politics became a means of evangelizing the masses and gaining influence over society's power structures, including politicians, businesspeople, and media figures.

It is worth noting that the conservative values embraced by evangelicals have attracted not only evangelicals but also conservative Catholics. Amy Erica Smith, an American political scientist, highlights that both groups often find themselves on the same side of ideological debates on issues related to sexuality, abortion, and women's rights. However, while Catholic leaders have become more cautious about political positioning, evangelical leaders have become more politically engaged.

The recent wave of conservatism in Brazil, which culminated in the election of President Jair Bolsonaro, was fueled by various factors. According to researchers Paulo Gracino Junior and Carlos Henrique Souza, the anti-Workers' Party sentiment played a significant role in consolidating conservative forces. Bolsonaro's candidacy brought together different conservative affections in society, such as fear of new gender identities, nostalgia for the military dictatorship, and the fight against corruption.

According to a study by Gracino Junior, Mayra Goulart, and Paula Frias, resentment is the driving force behind the identification between Bolsonaro's candidacy and the evangelical electorate. This resentment is linked to a sense of abandonment and a demand from voters who felt culturally and socially humiliated. Evangelicals, in particular, have transitioned from a marginalized group to an organized social class with cultural and political representation. The election of Bolsonaro, who positioned himself as a strong defender of conservative values, resonated deeply with this group.

Despite the significant political influence of evangelicals in Brazil, it is crucial to recognize that their religious identity is not the sole determinant of their voting choices. Ana Carolina Evangelista, a political scientist, argues that evangelical voters are driven by a combination of social, political, economic, and religious factors. The so-called "moral agenda" has been employed to activate fears and anxieties among voters, particularly in areas related to family values and public safety.

In conclusion, the rise of evangelicals as a political force in Brazil is the result of a combination of factors, including theological changes, the embrace of conservative values, and the ability to fill a political void left by traditional parties. While the evangelical movement has been instrumental in shaping the political landscape, it is essential to recognize that their political engagement is multifaceted and influenced by a range of social, economic, and political factors. To navigate this complex landscape, it is crucial to understand the diverse motivations and aspirations of evangelical voters.

Actionable Advice:

1. Foster dialogue and understanding: To bridge the divide between different religious and ideological groups, it is important to promote open and respectful dialogue. This can help create a better understanding of the motivations and concerns of different communities, fostering empathy and collaboration.
2. Promote civic education: Enhancing civic education is crucial in empowering citizens to critically engage with political discourse and make informed decisions. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex political landscapes, we can promote a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
3. Address socioeconomic inequalities: To address the underlying factors that contribute to the rise of religious and political movements, it is essential to tackle socioeconomic inequalities. By creating equal opportunities and ensuring access to education, healthcare, and employment, we can mitigate the appeal of movements that promise immediate improvements in individuals' lives.

By understanding the factors that have shaped the rise of evangelicals in Brazil and their political influence, we can foster a more inclusive and democratic society. It is through open dialogue, education, and addressing socioeconomic inequalities that we can build a more harmonious and equitable future for all.