E pluribus unum : the limits of religious pluralism in American liberal democracy.

Abstract

"Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." Often inferred from the religion clauses of the First Amendment of the United States Constitution are the absolute right of religious liberty and the subsequent necessity of a religiously pluralistic society. Religious pluralism has become a norm of American society and, in many cases, a norming value—seen as a founding principle of the United States and a keystone of liberal democracy. In the ongoing dialogue regarding religion and its role in democracy, however, religious pluralism's assumed position in society is one deserving of scrutiny. As religion itself is considered within the intricate balance of republican government, so must all aspects of religion—including religious pluralism and its trusted fortress: religious liberty. Such assessment illuminates and demonstrates the extent and limits of religious liberty and, subsequently, religious pluralism in liberal democracy.