Seperation of Church and State

[Rex]

Of course we know a few large countries link church and state but we in the United States have no clear cut link.

Of course we have our debates on whether religion in school is ok, etc , etc.

But

Is having this non link a better freedom for us, or does it just make things harder?

 

[Colin_Admin]

I like the freedom because what religion would we use to link church and state?

 

[Engyo]

Personally I believe that separation of church and state, or of spiritual and temporal power will, in the far future, be one of the "great" or "eternal" ideas to come from this time, and from the USofA. I don't believe that a "free" society is possible where there is NOT separation of church and state.

"All people are free, as long as you believe the way we do" does not signify free as I understand it. I also feel that most if not all religions function much better when the temptations of temporal power are removed....... 30 minutes of studying history will demonstrate that quite effectively.

 

[Alaric]

Here in Denmark we still have a state religion - we are all born Lutherans until we opt out. However, this country has to be one of the most secular states in the world - sometimes I doubt even the priests believe in God. In principle I want a separation, and its a bit annoying for the other religions, but it also means that those of us still registered as Lutheran have to pay a church tax which keeps the churches maintained, and traditions alive, and frankly, that's okay with me. It keeps religion from being a 'big deal'.

 

[Green Gaia]

Religious freedom is essential to a free society. Religion has no part in government, and vise versa.

 

[Rex]

I had someone submit an essay on this topic.

Check the knowledge base page.

 

[F_R_O_G]

If anyone were to read the first amendment and the 14th amendment it would be clear that the people have freedom of religion not freedom from religion. In fact there are absolutely no restrictions on religion and religious expectation as long as it does not interfere with the American law ie: you can evaded taxes by saying your religion doesn't support taxes. Not allowing people to pray allowed in school, have the teachers tell the students what they believe, and putting a statue of the ten commandments is all judicial activism. It is all so clear in the constitution that we have freedom of religion and the only reason anybody has thought otherwise is because if you say something enough time people will start believing it, separation of church and state, there is no such thing.