Recent orders
The Separation of Church and State Stephen Carter
The Separation of Church and State Stephen Carter
Carter observes that “the wall [between church and state] has to have a few doors in it” (paragraph 10). What sorts of doors does Carter advocate? Why?
Carter adopts a historical perspective toward the Establishment Clause and the separation of church and state. How does this perspective shape his argument?
Cater’s prose is generally formal and academic, but he adopts a more casual form tone repeatedly in the essay. What are the effects of this stylistic choice?
Locate and read the text of the Supreme Court opinions Carter discusses. What do you think the opinion is saying about the separation of church and state? Write about the ways in which your interpretation of the opinion supports or challenges Carter’s?
The Paradox of Religious Pluralism Randall Balmer
The Paradox of Religious Pluralism Randall Balmer
Balmer subtitles his essay “The Paradox of Religious Pluralism.” Why dies he characterize religious pluralism as a paradox? How does the idea of paradox structure the essay?
Balmer writes in a professional academic style. What are the hallmarks of this style? What might be its advantages or limitations?
Balmer holds that American religion has historically protected the state from political unrest by serving as a “safety valve for social discontent” (paragraph 20). Test this assertion against an example or examples from your own experience. Do you see religion working in this way? Write a response either agreeing or disagreeing with Balmer’s “safety valve” theory.
Separation of Church and State Randall Balmer
Separation of Church and State Randall Balmer
Balmer subtitles his essay “The Paradox of Religious Pluralism.” Why dies he characterize religious pluralism as a paradox? How does the idea of paradox structure the essay?
Balmer writes in a professional academic style. What are the hallmarks of this style? What might be its advantages or limitations?
Balmer holds that American religion has historically protected the state from political unrest by serving as a “safety valve for social discontent” (paragraph 20). Test this assertion against an example or examples from your own experience. Do you see religion working in this way? Write a response either agreeing or disagreeing with Balmer’s “safety valve” theory.