Reply #68: Separation of Church and State [View All]

[Zebedeo]

Atheists are quick to point out that the First Amendment establishment clause should be interpreted as not only outlawing an establishment of a particular religion, but also preventing government from favoring religion over nonreligion.

I am simply saying that the corollary of that view is that the government should also not favor nonreligion over religion.

Now, atheists for the most part are very resistant to having their position on religious matters characterized as a "religion." I understand that. They also resist having it called a "belief." OK, I don't see why calling it a "belief" is inaccurate or insulting, but fine - I don't want to offend anyone. Some poster (I can't recall who) objected to me calling atheism a "position." Whatever. Let's call atheism a "Marklar." Theism is also a "Marklar."

No one's personal Marklar should be imposed on others. Everyone is entitled to have their own Marklar. Therefore, the government should not establish any particular Marklar as the official government Marklar. Nor should the government prohibit anybody from practicing their Marklar.

That's what I believe. Oops, I said "believe." That means its a "belief" and I have just insulted myself!