week 2 response 1& 2 412
Ivory Parker
1 posts
Re: Topic 2 DQ 1
Hello Class,
Religious disestablishment in American provided opportunities to develop political and legal rules. During the American Revolution, people fought against the British as they believed morally correct (Davis, 2000). The fight ensured that Americans gained self-governance and people could work together to develop infrastructure in their country (Pierard, 1983). The religious disestablishment ensured that the rights of each American were protected. Americans could not face oppression from other people. The vulnerable society members had the right to enjoy similar public services without encountering discrimination (Pierard, 1983). Religious disestablishment encouraged prayers to God. The Congress members would start sessions after praying. First Amendment intended to provide Americans to choose their preferred religions instead of the federal government having direct control on religious matters (Pierard, 1983). Evangelical protestants believed that disestablishment increased church denominations that resulted in religious freedom (Davis, 2000). However, separation brought drawbacks such as high divorce rates, school gun shootings, drug abuse, and teenage pregnancies (Davis, 2000). Therefore, religious disestablishment in America influenced political and legal rules that promote morality despite drawbacks.
Davis, D. (2000). Editorial: Reflections on moral decline in America: Consulting the Founding Fathers' views on the roles of church and state in crafting the good society. Journal of Church and State, 42(2), 237-245. doi: 10.1093/jcs/42.2.237
Pierard, R. (1983). Standing the founding fathers on their heads. Christian Century, 368-372. Retrieved from https://www.religion-online.org/article/standing-the-founding-fathers-on-their-heads/
1 posts
Re: Topic 2 DQ 1
Some benefits of disestablishment in America, or the abolition of having an official governing religion; the separation of church and state; are that people are free to pursue religion as they see fit (Hemeyer, 2016). While some may practice their religions openly, others can be more private if they want. Some people practice a few different methods or combinations of religion, much like being eclectic with practices. Others are free to marry people of different religions. I believe this was an opportunity also to build stronger communities as long as the government did not play an immediate part in the religious activities or affiliations (Hemeyer, 2016).
Hemeyer, J. C. (2016). Religion in America (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.