Owen & Puca/Pagan Religions, 51. What Explains the Enduring Bias against Pagans?

The enduring bias against Pagans stems from early Christian use of "pagan" to demean non-Christians. Though Pagan movements have reclaimed terms like "witch," they remain misunderstood as the "other" possessing exclusive, secret knowledge. Gender dynamics and female sexuality have fuelled an overemphasis on sexual aspects. Stereotypes around sacrifices, devil worship and Occultism persist. While the religious landscape evolves, reluctance to fully accept Pagans continues, with a recent focus on alleged right-wing politics in Paganism.