The state and religion in a nutshell

Expert narrative describes and analyzes the religious freedom issues that have occupied the Supreme Court's attention in recent decades and exploded into public debate in recent years. The text explains principles and analyzes categories of cases using a framework based on three fundamental values: choice in religious matters, equality of treatment, and separation of church and state. Provides historical perspective and explains how the First Amendment's Establishment Clause and Free Exercise Clause interact. Also analyzes legislative provisions on religious freedom, which have caused widespread controversy in recent years, as well as state constitutional provisions. Useful for law students, practitioners, and interested laypersons.

Introductory overview -- A brief history of American church-state relations -- Free exercise of religion -- Religion in government institutions and activities -- Governmental assistance to religious institutions and activities -- Religious influences on political decision-making -- The definition of "religion."