Paranoia and paradox: The apocalyptic rhetoric of Christian identity

The presence of racists and anti‐Semites has become increasingly apparent during the past decade, particularly as they turn to the Internet to quickly and inexpensively disseminate their vitriolic discourse. This study examines the on‐line rhetoric of one group within this larger movement—followers of the Christian Identity theology. Christian Identity claims that white Christians will triumph over the forces of evil in an imminent racial war, thereby bringing the Kingdom of Heaven to earth. As this study demonstrates, paranoia and paradox are integral components of the apocalyptic discourse disseminated by adherents to the Christian Identity theology.