Liberal Studies 305
Religious and Ethical Values in American Society (3 credits)
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.
