8legs: Robert j. switzer

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Letters to the Editor: No, the 1st Amendment doesn’t leave the states free to establish religion

The letters argue the 1st Amendment applies to states, not just the federal government, limiting state-religion displays.
Writers contend Civil War Amendments altered federal-state relations, reinforcing rights against state establishments.
Some letters question the claim that the Ten Commandments are the source of Western morality.
Author James Madison is cited as opposing religious establishments, challenging the idea of state power.
Readers emphasize that the Supreme Court has interpreted the First Amendment to protect rights against state actions.
One letter argues that Madison warned that established churches corrupt both church and state.
The discussion includes criticism of selective religious displays in public spaces like schools.
The letters highlight a broader public debate over church-state separation and education.
The exchange underscores that opinions on religion and state power remain unsettled in public discourse.
The article notes the letters reference past events and symbols, including a Ten Commandments display context.

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