PRST 305: Religious and Ethical Values in American Society

Course Description

This course examines the role of religion in American public life historically and in recent times. It provides a perspective on the meaning of the separation of church and state as understood by the Founding Fathers, as interpreted by Supreme Court over time, and in current political debates. The course also analyzes a variety of ethical and religious perspectives that underlie contemporary cultural conflicts over the proper direction of some of our most important social institutions-the family, schools, and the legal system. Finally, the course explores the moral and religious arguments surrounding four critical issues-abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, and affirmative action-and what public policies should result from these positions.