Autoritarismo e discurso religioso : a personalidade autoritária em Adorno e a Teologia do Domínio no Brasil contemporâneo

Abstract

This study investigates the characteristics of the authoritarian personality, as theorized by Theodor Adorno, in the discourse of Brazilian religious and political leaders aligned with Dominion Theology (DT), a militant strand of evangelical fundamentalism. The research aims to identify and describe authoritarian traits, such as rigid conventionalism, submission to authority, and aggression toward marginalized groups, in the context of the growing influence of Dominion Theology in Brazil. Using a bibliographic and documentary methodology, the work analyzes academic articles, books, speeches, sermons, news and social media content to explore the intersection between religion and politics. The findings reveal a concerning convergence between Dominion Theology and authoritarian ideologies, amplified by social media and echo chambers. Despite these trends, the study emphasizes that not all evangelicals adhere to authoritarian ideologies, and many resist the authoritarian directives of their leaders. The implications for democracy, pluralism, and freedom in Brazil are profound, as the instrumentalization of religion for political purposes threatens the rights of vulnerable groups and undermines democratic institutions. The study concludes by suggesting the need for further research, including qualitative studies, to deepen the understanding of the psychological and social dynamics involved. Psychology plays a crucial role in addressing the psychosocial impacts of this polarization.