Religion is a cultural system of beliefs, practices, and ethics. It is a source of moral guidance, a basis for social and economic organization, and an instrument for social control and social cohesion. Its members may share a common narrative about the origin and nature of life, the universe, and other phenomena. Religions are often large-scale and global, but they may also be small-scale and local. They may have a sacred history, mythologies, and oral traditions, as well as holy places, scriptures, symbols, and rituals. They are usually organized around a hierarchy of religious specialists, such as priests, rabbis, imams, monks, and gurus. They typically have a missionary aspect, a desire to share their religion with the outside world.
The concept of religion has evolved over the centuries. It began as a term denoting scrupulous devotion to a god or gods, and then grew into a generic type of human institution. The idea of a religion now encompasses many diverse social groups, some of which are monotheistic and others polytheistic, but all of which have some form of worship and a common narrative about the origin and purpose of life.
These changes in the semantic range of religion have raised important philosophical issues. For one, the definition of what constitutes a religion shifts from a substantive definition (a belief in a unique kind of reality) to functional definitions (any grouping of practices that unite people into a single moral community). The shift is also important for understanding how the meaning of a religion can change over time.
The emergence of new world religions has further complicated the question of how to define religion. Some of these religions are monotheistic, but others have evolved from a mix of different polytheistic religious traditions. Some religions are mystical, focusing on internal experiences of transcendence and spirituality. Others are pragmatic, embracing a philosophy of interdependence and concern for the needs of others.
All of these religious forms are important to Americans, and it is vital that we continue to support their role in American society. In particular, Congress should support the President in nominating and confirming judges who respect the role of religion in the lives of the American people. The Senate should ask all nominees about their views of the relationship between government and religion, and their understanding of the Founding Fathers’ intent on this issue.
Religion is a powerful force in the lives of two-thirds of the American population. It influences fashion, media, war, peacemaking, law enforcement and crime prevention, education, health, family, and marriage practices, and the content of culture. Yet, a totally secular approach to many problems in America ignores the fact that religion shapes most of our personal and public lives. It is time for the Senate to take its rightful place in a national debate about the role of religion in modern life. A debate that must include a full discussion of the profound benefits that the practice of religion can bring to individuals, families, and nations.