Enchanted America

In Enchanted America, J. Eric Oliver examines the tension between intuitive and reason-based ways of understanding the world and how that divide shapes political beliefs and behavior.

Drawing on survey evidence and political analysis, Oliver shows how clusters of supernatural, paranormal, and intuition-driven beliefs correlate with susceptibility to conspiracy theories and populist appeals.

He argues that shifts in authority, information environments, and cultural dynamics have allowed intuitionist modes of thought to claim greater influence in American politics.

The book traces how intuitionism moves from margin to mainstream and the implications for democratic institutions and policymaking.

Oliver situates these patterns historically and empirically to explain contemporary political dynamics, including the appeal of figures like Donald Trump.