Beyond the Separation of Church and State in America

Abstract

This Essay analyzes the convergence of secularization theory and separation of church and state logic in mid-20th century American law and culture. It also shows that First Amendment law has moved beyond this separationist logic in recent opinions, and suggests a new integrative theory of religion, culture, and politics in its support.

Keywords: Secularization, Separation of Church and State, First Amendment, Religious Freedom, Public Religion, Religion and Politics, Religion and Culture, United States Supreme Court