McAlister's descriptions and analysis come together like a multidimensional matrix of events, personalities, religious and political motivations, and broader cultural contexts. Her research illuminates the complexity of international politics, human rights history and religious identity building, all with American evangelicals in the center. She is well versed in global evangelical culture.
Melani McAlister teaches American Studies and International Affairs at George Washington University. Her books include Epic Encounters: Culture, Media, and US Interests in the Middle East and the co-edited collection, Global Faith/Worldly Power.