Have you ever read the constitution or the declaration of independance? Religion was far more prominent back then.

 

chris...i'm a former lawyer so yes i've read and studied the constitution and declaration of independence...i wouldn't say i understand it better than you but my base knowledge of its clauses and founders intent is probably greater than that of a non-lawyer (even if i last studied and practiced constitutional law is well removed)

the constitution was written to segregate laws based on religious beliefs to reduce the monarchial effect and eliminate the church from taking a ruling hand in this country (it was religious persecution via the government as to why this country was founded)...and this was even back then when almost everybody was a practicing christian...our founders were very smart and visionaries and understood that religion and government should not mix nor should government prefer one over another

for instance the Establishment Clause and Free Exercise clauses (1st Amendment) states as follows: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof."...the establishment clause is the greatest effect meaning Congress cannot determine a national religion nor prefer one religion over another. This was interpreted by the courts and subsequent laws that Church & State are to be separate entities. This clause was extended to enforce to state & local municipalities so they could also not be based on religion nor prefer one over another.

however, there are links to christianity as "in god we trust" and "swear to tell the truth, nothing but the truth" with your hand on the new testament...but outside of swearing your truthfulness

as such there is nothing wrong with people using religion or faith to make decisions...however introducing laws based purely upon religious grounds is a violation that is rampant with this administration

 

Excellent dissertation and I agree completely, Joel. Sorry for belittling you.

So as you understand the constitution very well, you realize that the legislature makes the laws...not the president. The executive branch certainly has a powerful hand over the legislature due to the power of the veto and the modern day fact that the president is typically seen as the leader of his political party. But that doesn't mean that Bush could make a single law if he wanted to.

 

well that is all well and true...however a very right wing white house with control of both senate and congress blur the seperation of powers doctrine

i especially like how delay thought courts should not interpret laws...he said that was legislatures jobs!...he is very wrong and now no longer a major influencer in congress (one thing good has happened)...in fact the movement to discriminate against gays based on religion was struck down by a fair majority of both democrat and republicans - just think...40 years ago interracial marriage was illegal in this country!...40 years ago african americans were 2nd class citizens...60 years ago women couldn't even vote...what a long way we have come...just a little bit more as these older homophobes die off (unfortunately that's what has to happen...just 2 years ago some members of the congress still supported racial segregation in schools...they are gone now)...we just need term limits to get that old agenda driven blood out and get some more moderate people in there that are in touch with those they are elected to represent

 

I completely agree, and I think we both agree that the legislature is a fine check and balance on executive power Especially since the gay marriage thing got struck down so easily.

 

:werd:

 

wow...so much insight with your first post...congrats

 

:werd: