Rel in American Political Life

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Since its founding, the citizens of the United States have continually clashed over what they deem to be the appropriate role for religion in American political life. James Madison, on one hand, believed that government was not to be cognizant of religion and that religious diversity and competition of sects would protect religious liberty. George Washington, on the other hand, believed that government should encourage religion and that non-sectarian religious language, symbolism, and celebrations would serve as vehicles for moralizing and uniting the nation. These varying positions held by two of the nation’s most esteemed founders are mere harbingers for the diversity of positions that have emerged and been debated throughout American history. This course is designed to introduce students to the foundations of these debates as well as the various theories held by religionists, theologians, and sociologists regarding the role of religion in political life. Class readings and discussions on the place of religious discourse in politics, public education, marriage, and health care will help students appreciate the complexity and precariousness of drawing sharp distinctions between what is deemed to be secular and religious.