Law and Religion: A Critical Anthology / Edition 1

by Stephen M. Feldman

Overview

Few issues arouse as much passionate debate as the relationship between church and state. Political parties and coalitions have long jockeyed for position in the battle to either keep the two separate, or to unify them in one nation indivisible from God. While the battle has been raging in the political arena, figures from academia, the media, and myriad other vantage points, have commented on the context and constitutionality of laws governing religious expression.
In Law and Religion, Stephen M. Feldman brings together the many perspectives that have shaped policy on this important national issue. In giving voice to the political left and right, as well as to cultural, philosophical, sociological and historical perspectives, the book serves as an even-handed treatment of an issue all too often clouded by biases. Contributors ranging from Stanley Fish to Richard John Neuhaus explore issues extending from religious morality and religious freedom, to fundamentalism, the separation of church and state, religion and public schooling, and liberal political theory. Comprehensive in scope, Law and Religion will stand as an important reference for anyone seeking to further understand this complex and highly emotional topic.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780814726792
Publisher:	New York University Press
Publication date:	09/01/2000
Series:	Critical America , #69
Pages:	497
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 10.00(h) x 7.00(d)

About the Author

Stephen M. Feldman is Jerry W. Housel/Carl F. Arnold Distinguished Professor of Law and Adjunct Professor of Political Science at the University of Wyoming. His previous titles include Please Don’t Wish Me a Merry Christmas: A Critical History of the Separation of Church and State (NYU Press, 1997) and Law and Religion: A Critical Anthology (NYU Press, 2000).

Editorial Reviews

Twenty-two scholars of law, ethics, philosophy, and religion address the relationship between law and religion in America, offering insights into how religion relates to the public sphere, the Supreme Court, and liberal political theory. Also included is a section exploring "outsider views" of the separation of church and state. Specific chapters focus on issues such as why the state must subordinate religion, religious argument in a free and democratic society, and prayer in the public schools. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews