Draw the Line: Should religion play a role in American Politics?

This week's question seems particularly appropriate during the current election season. With every pundit in town probing the issue, we thought it would be interesting to see what our visitors had to say about the issue. Here is a breakdown of their responses:



Of the 85 people to respond to the question at the museum since we posed it, approximately 79% selected "No"

Here are some thoughts from our visitors:

YES
"Americans are religious people. Religion should play a role in politics after all the 1st Amendment protects freedom of (sic.) religion not freedom from religion." -G. M., Natick, MA

"Yes- if your religion is important then it should be a controlling factor in every part of your life and having a national leader with a lifestyle that upholds religions freedoms and sets an example for others to follow." -Rebecca, Rockton, Il.

NO
"Separation of church and state is a very important part of American politics... it should stay that way." - Ahava, Dover, DE

"It informs your values but should not be used as a mallet on others." -Barbara, Belleville, IL

UM
"Yes and no. It should be mostly no." -Holly, Reading, MA

"Sometimes it should, sometimes it shouldn't." -Jeremy, New York City, NY

What do you have to say about the issue? Can you highlight a specific example from the current campaigns? Let's discuss!

Looking for more information? Try these articles, which have been selected for their diversity of opinions:
Religious, and Right
Good Faith
For 3 Candidates, a Test on Religion