Samuel Perry

Samuel Perry is the Sam K. Viersen Presidential Professor of Sociology at the University of Oklahoma, part of the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences. He holds a PhD from the University of Chicago (2015) and specializes in American religion, race, politics, and sexual behavior. His research on Christian nationalism, culture wars, and moral incongruence has earned prestigious awards, including the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion’s Distinguished Book Award and multiple university recognitions. Perry has authored/co-authored five books, including *The Flag and the Cross* (with Philip Gorski) and *Religion for Realists* (2024). He is a frequent public commentator, appearing in *TIME*, *The Washington Post*, and documentaries like *Frontline*.

Education: BA in Communications (Augusta University, 2003), ThM in New Testament (Dallas Theological Seminary, 2006), MA (2010) and PhD (2015) in Sociology from the University of Chicago.

Research Interests: Christian nationalism, race-relations, politics, families, and sexual behavior. His work explores how religion intersects with cultural and political dynamics, particularly in conservative movements.

Recent Articles: Focus on Christian nationalism’s impact on policy, racial politics, climate attitudes, and democratic norms (e.g., gun control opposition, taxation, policing beliefs). His work bridges academic rigor and public engagement, addressing contemporary societal challenges.

Grants & Awards: Irene Rothbaum Teaching Award (2018), OU Research Excellence Awards (2020, 2022), and the 2024 Sam K. Viersen Chair. Recognized as #1 ranked sociologist globally by ScholarGPS (2023).