PS 202 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Orthodox Judaism, James Davison, School Voucher

• School: University of Illinois
• Department: Political Science
• Course: PS 202
• Professor: Rudolph Thomas

Document Summary

Roughly 85% of americans claim some religious af liation, protestant, catholic, jew, Roughly 70% of americans claim membership in a church, synagogue, or mosque. Churches are by far the largest voluntary organization in the united states, larger than unions, professional associations, neighborhood groups, alumni associations etc. Religion often provides assumptions about human nature, whether people are intrinsically good or evil. Religion formulates rationales for the design and purpose of political systems: human nature: limited government, separation of powers, checks and balances. Religion generates expectations about the end of time and what happens after we die. Religion is a good source of group identity. Churches often overlay ethnic and regional backgrounds. People who share religious af liations often share similar theological and ideological beliefs. Churches provide a sense of community, both spiritually and physically in the local community. Awareness of public issues from a moral perspective. Encouragement to join other civic and community betterment activities.