List of Pros and Cons of Separation of Church and State
The concept of separation of church and state has long been a debated topic and it will continue to be one of the most debated topics that we will encounter. Many people feel strongly that church and state should remain separate, especially because of religious beliefs. The concept of separation of church and state was first coined by Thomas Jefferson who used it as a way of saying that the government cannot make a person choose a certain religion or be forced to live by someone else’s religion. Before you take a stand on whether or not you agree, it is best to consider some of the pros and cons to this long debated subject.
The Pros of Separation of Church and State
1. Serves As a Way to Protect Religious Faith
If you live in a county where democracy is established, you should be aware that the idea of the separation of church and state is the only way to prevent the government from forcing religion on you and directing your religion and its doctrines.
2. Makes Religion a Personal Choice
Religion is considered one of the most important factors in most people’s lives and it should be treated with reverence. In order to keep the government from directing religion and making it change how you are allowed to believe, church and state need to be separate.
3. Creates a State of Progression
Separation of church and state allows for more openness when it comes to the decisions of the country. In a world where everyone has different beliefs and different religions, a forced religion can cause an uprising and the dissolvent of a nation.
The Cons of Separation of Church and State
1. Conflicts in Differing Beliefs
Many worry that the separation of church and state can make it appear that others can force their beliefs onto another person. The state does not have the right to stop people from their beliefs and cannot tell them what religion to believe in or how to act on their religion.
2. Does Not Allow Faith to Dictate Rules of Law
As two separate entities, each are able to come up with their own laws and rules that cannot affect the other. They are allowed to design their own plans for society without inflicting force on anyone for something they don’t believe in or stand for.
3. Not Written in Founding Documents
The concept of separation of church and state is not written into the declaration or the constitution. In that, it is one of the main reasons that people wonder where they really stand when it comes to their beliefs in society.
Is This The Best Option?
For many people, the idea of the church and state being separated is the best option. It doesn’t allow the government to be influenced by any religious beliefs (although it does not hinder a person in a government job to have religion) and it doesn’t allow the government to force beliefs on any one person. While we are all expected to follow the laws of the government, most people also adhere to the laws of their religion without allowing them to cloud judgment.