The Constitution is, and always has been, a framework of solid bone with phrases and words that are imperfect, incomplete, general, and sometimes vague. Sometimes these phrases and words are devoid of an agreed-upon meaning and are therefore interpreted by SCOTUS, which gives them “flesh and substance.”
Yes, freedom of religion is in the Constitution. However, "those [rules and laws], built upon Judeo-Christian principles” (which are principles that we prize in this country), can stand alone as “principles” that are universal to, and the bedrock of, all human cultures and religions. They may as well be Native-American-Asiatic principles, or Pagan-Nordic principles. Giving them any of these labels, like "Judeo-Christian," is redundant and sometimes, depending on how it is intended or used, arrogant and bigoted.
We can either honor our Judeo-Christian heritage by appreciating and promoting its positive aspects, or we can debase it by using it as an excuse to discriminate against others who have arisen out of different traditions.
How are you using it?
Loren M. Lambert © November 4, 2016
Yes, freedom of religion is in the Constitution. However, "those [rules and laws], built upon Judeo-Christian principles” (which are principles that we prize in this country), can stand alone as “principles” that are universal to, and the bedrock of, all human cultures and religions. They may as well be Native-American-Asiatic principles, or Pagan-Nordic principles. Giving them any of these labels, like "Judeo-Christian," is redundant and sometimes, depending on how it is intended or used, arrogant and bigoted.
We can either honor our Judeo-Christian heritage by appreciating and promoting its positive aspects, or we can debase it by using it as an excuse to discriminate against others who have arisen out of different traditions.
How are you using it?
Loren M. Lambert © November 4, 2016
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