The role of religion in American society


New Pew survey reveals some interesting results

Sometimes it is all worth it.

According to the survey, nearly half of Americans (49%) believe conservative Christians have gone too far in trying to impose their religious values on the country. At the same time, 69% think liberals have gone too far in trying to keep religion out of schools and government.

Though most Americans are religious (and most think religious influence on our society is a good thing), few identify with religious political movements on the left or right. Only 7% call themselves members of the “religious left,” and only 11% say they belong to the “religious right.”

I think I would define the "religious left" a little differently than either this article or the survey did. I'd include most of the environmental movement as it exists today. It has it's own dogma and intolerance.

But the thing that brought a real smile to my face was the last paragraph.

As we head into the midterm elections, politicians take note. The majority of Americans see a role for religion in public life — but they don’t want religion imposed on anyone, especially by the state. Moderation won’t stir the culture warriors, but it might win elections.

There we go. Most people get it. All we have to do is make sure they remember.

Hat tip to Wren's Nest.

— NeoWayland

Posted: Mon - September 4, 2006 at 04:51 AM  Tag


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