James Dobson, evangelical host and self-proclaimed authority on “family values,” has died. He was 89. Evil, it seems, always hangs on past the intended expiration date.
Dobson built an empire teaching parents how to hit their children in the name of God. His book Dare to Discipline turned belts, paddles, and hangers into holy instruments, and his advice echoed across America’s living rooms—just before the smack landed.
He leaves behind a legacy of bruises, broken spirits, and therapy bills. For many of us labeled “strong-willed children,” his teachings were the soundtrack to our punishment. He created nothing but pain in his time here.
Dobson is survived by Focus on the Family, a culture-war machine still fighting progress, and by a generation who grew up despite him, not because of him.
His only mercy is that Hell is metaphorical—because if it weren’t, he’d finally be somewhere that fit.
In lieu of flowers, practice gentleness, break cycles, and let children be strong-willed.