Purging the Devil: Exorcism, Possession & Political Panic with Grafton Tanner

Nov 30, 2025 · 58m

Why does the figure of the devil keep returning in moments of political panic, social anxiety, and cultural decay? In this episode, we sit down with author Grafton Tanner about exorcism, possession, moral panic, and the strange new life of demonology in contemporary America. We trace how neoliberal collapse, social media, and ideological confusion reanimate the satanic imaginary across the political spectrum. The conversation also explores fear, fantasy, and why authoritarian movements rely on demons—literal or metaphorical—to justify themselves. Boycott Watkins on IG: https://www.instagram.com/boycottwatkins/ Support the show AHRC Current classes at Acid Horizon Research Commons (AHRC): acidhorizonresearchcommons.com AHRC Course Archive: https://www.acidhorizonpodcast.com/ahrc-course-archives Submit your course proposal: acidhorizonresearchcommons@gmail.com More Links Website: https://www.acidhorizonpodcast.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/acidhorizon Acid Horizon on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/acidhorizonpodcast Boycott Watkins Media: https://xenogothic.com/2025/03/17/boycott-watkins-statement/ Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast: https://pod.link/1512615438 Merch: http…

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