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Politics : Sharks in the Septic Tank -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?


To: Neocon who wrote (52761)7/9/2002 12:08:10 PM
From: J. C. Dithers  Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 82486
 
The definition of establishment is actually pretty clear

It is true that a religion (or a custom) can be "established" in a society numerous ways. The mere fact that a high majority of the populace practices a particular religion helps to establish it. The reference to a particular religion in government documents or proclamations and/or its practice in public places would certainly help to establish it.

If you regard such matters as Constitutional issues ... how do you get around the fact that the Constitution does not speak against "establishing a religion" ?

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; ...

It speaks against making any laws respecting such establishment.

When you say the definition of establishment is actually pretty clear --

What is the source of authority for the clarity, if it is not our Constitution?



To: Neocon who wrote (52761)7/9/2002 12:10:07 PM
From: Lane3  Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 82486
 
In the case of the pledge, it may suffice to stand silent at the relevant part, or it may not. In any case, that is the issue, properly understood.......

I'm glad you agree with me.



To: Neocon who wrote (52761)7/9/2002 12:14:08 PM
From: Bill  Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 82486
 
Excellent summary, Neo.

Another way to view this issue is that removing "under God" actually might be an act designed to prohibit the free exercise of religion. It also might be interpreted as an act designed to establish atheism as this country's "religion". Naturally it would violate the First Amendment of both grounds.

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;"