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For a country that was apparently founded on the separation of church and state, US politics seems to be deeply enmeshed with Christianity. Now, Louisiana classrooms are required by state law to display the ten commandments…which definitely seems to be blurring the lines between church and state! Today we’re talking about what the separation of church and state actually means, whether it’s a concept ancient Christians would have recognized, and whether a religious foundation necessitates that a modern society be guided by religion.

Megan asks Bart:

- Why is this an important topic to discuss?

- The First Amendment has two clauses that relate to this topic - the establishment clause, which prevents the government from establishing a state-sponsored church, and the “free exercise” clause, which protects a citizen’s right to practice their religion as they choose, as long as it doesn’t go against either public morals, or a compelling government interest. Were either of these things a concept for ancient people?

- You said that Christianity was an exception to this, can you comment on that?

- What is the moral majority?

- Do you think that a foundational role necessitates a continued importance?

- Proponents of the law say that it’s not a purely religious requirement, rather that it serves an historical purpose as the ten commandments are “...foundational documents of our state and national government”. What are your views on this as a professor in a university?

- If many of the people arguing that the 10 commandments are so important aren’t actually familiar with what they say, is this more about control and a display of Christian supremacy?