The Right to Be Rude Why All Religions and Secular Philosophies Must Tolerate Criticism

I’m not in the habit of giving unsolicited advice to the Church of Scientology, but if I were, it would be straightforward: You have critics. Get over it. The controversial church has been accused of... Read More

Military Maneuvers The Growing Battle over Religious Freedom in the Armed Forces

Issues related to religious freedom in the military could constitute the next big wave of church-state conflicts. Change is in the air—and some people don’t like that. The Navy recently granted approval to the first... Read More

Religion and Politics How Much Mixing Do Americans Want?

A recent poll by the Pew Forum on the issue of religion and politics sparked headlines that, at first glance, seemed alarming. “Americans want more politics with their preaching,” one newspaper blared. Well, yes and... Read More

Prayer by Popular Vote?

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on May 5, 2014, that local governments can, under certain conditions, open their meetings with prayers—even if those supplications to the deity are Christian most of the time. I can’t... Read More

A Charter for Controversy? Public school “alternatives” still must abide by the separation of church and state

Starting in the late 1980s charter schools were pitched to Americans as a harmless and non-threatening alternative to traditional public schools. That’s come to pass in some states. But in others, we’re beginning to see... Read More

Rights Or Restrictions? The new debate over the meaning of religious freedom

In March the U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in two important cases that could establish new parameters for what religious liberty means. The two cases, which the high court has consolidated into one, concern... Read More