What place does religion have in policy?

reviewer · Mayor's Aide Joined: 04 Dec 2006 Posts: 145

One of the founding principles of the US government is the Constitution and the non-establishment clause (separation of church and state). However, religion seems to play a huge role in what policies are passed into law. What do you think?

Coda1108 · Mayor's Aide Joined: 13 Jun 2006 Posts: 130 Location: PA

I'm curious to hear an example of how religion impacts policy. It's actually one of our checks and balances to keep church and state separate, and frankly something the US is criticized for.

Religion comes up often in campaigning, but that's just vote-getting tactics. When it comes to policy, the separation of church & state holds pretty firm... If for no other reason than religious groups making sure bills aren't passed that infringe on that separation.

reviewer · Mayor's Aide Joined: 04 Dec 2006 Posts: 145

Of course religion impacts policy! Where do you think the debates on gay marriage, stem cell research, and abortion come from?

Coda1108 · Mayor's Aide Joined: 13 Jun 2006 Posts: 130 Location: PA

Not all values-related beliefs are anchored in religion. Though, I do tip my hat to you that yes, you make an excellent point. People do rely upon their religion to form beliefs, which then spill over into policy.