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1. Someone was asking why conservatives/Evangelicals are so easily conned by grifters. Good question, and I think the answer relates to much of what's wrong with our society.
2. It begins in childhood with strict-father parent modeling. Even if there is no father present in the home, it is represented by an angry God. This upbringing is heavy on corporal punishment and a child is taught to comply, and not question. (hence short on critical thinking)
3. In a conservative home, things that might otherwise be considered good in moderation are strongly demonized. Purity is idealized and sexuality is demonized, but sexuality is in reality such a big part of what humans are, so the child learns that sex is naughty, not normal.
4. Then televangelists such as Paul White, Joel Osteen, or Franklin Graham (for boomers) can come along & use their "charm" to open pocketbooks and politically influence. They appeal to their target/mark because they are physically attractive but pass a superficial purity test.
5. The evangelist's persona is often dishonest because these televangelists are frequently covering up some kinky things, but their surface image works for grifting. And the evangelists may even do some good things, but it doesn't really make up for what they're doing wrong.
6. Other by-products of this type of "strict" upbringing are vulnerability to conspiracy theories (and other types of magical thinking), and personal responsibility avoidance behaviors. The child learns to lie to avoid corporal punishment, and this carries into adult life.
7. Conflicting messages are learned in this atmosphere. One is that things are okay if you don't get caught. The person doesn't want to be shamed/punished so they tell lies. But if you do get caught, things will be okay if you "repent". Just a creepy dysfunctional lifestyle.
