The Iron Lady's Capitalist Christianity: Margaret Thatcher's Rhetorical Theology.

This article examines the intersection of Margaret Thatcher's Christianity and political rhetoric, identifying a coherent "rhetorical theology" that justifies her conservative, individualistic policies through a religious lens. Thatcher's rhetorical theology draws on a muted British version of the prosperity gospel, emphasizing personal responsibility, individual freedom, and the moral imperative of capitalism, while rejecting state intervention as a threat to liberty. Through analysis of her speeches, memoirs, and biographies, the authors show how Thatcher interpreted biblical teachings—such as the parables of the Good Samaritan and the talents—to support capitalist values and national defense, distinguishing her views from both liberal Christian theologies and more explicit prosperity gospel doctrines. The article also proposes expanding the concept of rhetorical theology to include the discernment of theological perspectives embedded in public rhetoric, even when not explicitly theological in intent.