Dobson's death brings to a close a career that profoundly influenced American culture, politics, and Christianity.

Born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dobson was a child psychologist by profession. His interest in helping parents discipline their children effectively led him to start a radio show, which would eventually launch the insurgent ministry and organization known as Focus on the Family in 1977.

From radio waves to national movement

During the 1980s, Dobson emerged as a key player in shaping the agenda for the Christian right, sharing the stage with other influential figures like Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson. His daily broadcasts offered Christian parenting advice, reaching an astonishing 4,000 radio stations globally.

Dobson's influence wasn't confined to the airwaves. Focus on the Family grew under his leadership to employ over a thousand people, creating a powerhouse that could mobilize vast resources for conservative causes.

In addition to his radio presence, Dobson was also an accomplished author, penning more than 70 books, which have been translated into 27 languages, helping to disseminate his conservative values on family and societal structure globally.

Advisor to presidents, cultural leader

Dobson's reach extended into the political arena, where he served as an advisor to five U.S. presidents. His most notable interview was with Ronald Reagan in 1985, underlining his status as a respected voice in politics.

In his later years, he expressed support for Donald Trump, particularly applauding President Donald Trump's appointment of conservative justices to the Supreme Court, a move he believed foundational in overturning Roe v. Wade.

His legacy also includes the creation of the Family Research Council, another institution geared toward advancing conservative policies in the U.S. Both organizations focused significant resources on political lobbying and advertising campaigns, aiming to steer political discourse in favor of conservative Christian values.

Controversial views, enduring impact

Despite his many accolades, Dobson's career was not without controversy, particularly regarding his support for conversion therapy -- a stance that sparked considerable backlash from LGBTQ+ communities and their allies.

His belief in discipline and conservative parenting techniques, as outlined in his books, also drew criticism from various quarters. He famously defended spanking in his literature, a method he believed necessary for effective child-rearing.

Dobson's passing is met with mixed reactions, reflecting the complex legacy of a man who both inspired and polarized.

Survived by his wife Shirley, their two children, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren, Dobson leaves behind a substantial ideological footprint that continues to shape discussions around faith, family, and politics.

Reflections from peers, observers pour in

Figures like Tony Perkins have revered Dobson, placing him on the metaphorical "Mount Rushmore" of Christian conservatives. Perkins credits him not just for his ideas, but for actively promoting them from a Biblical viewpoint.

Peter Wolfgang went further, naming Dobson as a critical architect in forming the institutions that enabled conservative triumphs in recent culture wars.

Wolfgang sees Dobson not only as a thinker but as a builder who has left an indelible mark on American evangelical politics.

However, others like John Fea approach Dobson's legacy with more ambivalence, recognizing his influence while personally rejecting his political and parenting ideologies.

Such diverse perspectives underscore the complex dimensions of Dobson's impact—a testament to a life that was as contentious as it was celebrated.