Quote:
Originally Posted by bullseyebarb
MikeSz's post regarding de Tocqueville's impressions of America are worth noting. However, we have always had a separation of church and state here, although not an absence of faith. This fact has long been a source of strength for our country.
As to the Archbishop.....he seems to be implying that the law is a lifestyle choice. It is not the first foolish thing he has said and I doubt it will be the last. He is, to quote Henry II, a meddlesome priest. Under his scenario, Muslim women - who happen to British - will become second class citizens under Sharia.
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Glad someone thought that was useful, although the comments were made on Radio 4's thought of the day by a Rev who's name has escaped me. I just pasted the text in.
whilst the differences between the two countries and the constitutional arrangements, especially concerning separation of powers have clear and contrasting differences, I think the text does qualify a broader theme which can apply in any political institution. It is a fine line however. Government is there to govern - in essense, make sure the country runs, when that and religion has always been (traditionally) the only mechanism for rules and citizenship (whether you agree with it or not). The democratic government that we all currently live under is only a historically recent development. the degree to which Religion makes and potentially enforces rules for our lives and the degree to which government deliberates on spiritual issues is always going to result in overlap - and questionable merit, but I think the comments above provide useful guidance.