Changes

== Conservative Interpretation ==

== Conservative Interpretation ==

Liberals often focus on the so-called "[[establishment clause]]", in noting that the federal government cannot endorse or establish a religion.  However, liberals often overlook the clause explicitly allowing for the free exercise of religion.  Conservatives argue that this clause can be interpreted to allow much more leeway to the majority of religious Americans than liberals currently allow.

Liberals often focus on the so-called "[[establishment clause]]", arguing that because the federal government cannot endorse or establish a religion, the state must remain neutral, or even hostile towards religion.  However, liberals often overlook the clause explicitly allowing for the free exercise of religion.  Conservatives argue that this clause can be interpreted to allow much more leeway to the majority of religious Americans than liberals currently allow, and that it provides legislators with great flexibility in supporting the ends of Christian faith.  The fact that Congress may pass no law establishing a particular religion provides the federal government with the freedom to support a variety of Christian ventures, notably the faith-based initiatives enacted under President Bush.

{{US amendments}}

{{US amendments}}