"Navigating Faith and Sexuality" w/Dr. Kelsy Burke

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In this episode of Faithful Politics, political host Will Wright introduces Dr. Kelsy Burke, an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, who specializes in the intersection of religion, sexuality, and the digital world. She has authored the books "Christians Undercovers: Evangelical and Sexual Pleasure on the Internet" and "The Pornography Wars," both of which provide unique explorations of how religious individuals navigate their sexuality in the digital age.

Dr. Burke shares her personal journey into her research area, explaining how her experiences growing up in a Methodist church and later becoming involved in a local Baptist church in Wyoming shaped her understanding of religion and sexuality. Her personal struggle with the conflicting messages about sex and sexuality as a teenager, combined with her coming out as a queer person in her early 20s, led her to explore these two formative topics in her scholarly work.

Will Wright and Dr. Burke delve into the complexities of the relationship between religion and sexuality, particularly how religious beliefs influence perceptions and behaviors related to sex and sexuality. Dr. Burke's expertise sheds light on the nuances of how religious individuals reconcile their beliefs with their sexual identities, offering a fresh perspective on a subject often viewed as taboo. The conversation explores the societal implications of her research, providing valuable insights that challenge conventional thinking and engage listeners in thoughtful reflection.

This episode of Faithful Politics offers a thoughtful and enlightening discussion on a topic that resonates with many individuals, regardless of their religious affiliation or sexual orientation. Through candid conversation and expert analysis, the hosts and guest contribute to a broader understanding of the ways in which religion and sexuality intersect and influence one another in contemporary society. The conversation is not only informative but also encourages listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and experiences, making it a must-listen for those interested in the subject.

• Learn more about Kelsy

• The Pornography WarsThe Past, Present, and Future of America’s Obscene Obsession

• Christians under CoversEvangelicals and Sexual Pleasure on the Internet

Dr. Kelsy Burke is currently an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Nebraska Lincoln () and Public Fellow for the Public Religion Research Institute () (PRRI). After receiving a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh in 2013, Kelsy has become a leading expert on the relationship between conservative Christianity and gender and sexual politics in the United States. Her research has been supported by multiple grants and fellowships, including an award from the National Science Foundation, and published in top scholarly journals.

Support Sarah Stankorb’s work and preorder Damned If She DoesWhy Women Quit Church and What It Means for the Future of Religion, Releases September 15, 2026.  Bookshop.org

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