Religious Liberty in a Polarized Age - Hardcover

by Thomas C. Berg (Author)

How to heal America's deep divisions by preserving religious liberty for all
  
As our political and social landscapes polarize along party lines, religious liberty faces threats from both sides. From antidiscrimination commissions targeting conservative Christians to travel bans punishing Muslims, recent litigation has revealed the selective approach both left and right take when it comes to freedom of religion. But what if religious liberty is part of the cure for our political division? 
 
Drawing on constitutional law, history, and sociology, Thomas C. Berg shows us how reaffirming religious freedom cultivates the good of individuals and society. After explaining the features of polarization and the societal benefits of diverse religious practices, Berg offers practical counsel on balancing religious freedom against other essential values. 
 
Protecting Americans' ability to live according to their beliefs undergirds a healthy, pluralistic society--and this protection must extend to everyone, not just political allies. Lay readers and legal scholars who are weary of partisan quarreling will find Berg's case timely and compelling.

Author Biography

Thomas C. Berg is the James L. Oberstar Professor of Law and Public Policy at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, Minnesota, where he teaches religious liberty, constitutional law, and intellectual property. He also supervises students in the religious liberty appellate clinic, which files briefs in cases in the US Supreme Court and appellate courts. In his advocacy, he has represented Christians, Muslims, Jews, Native Americans, Jehovah's Witnesses, Hare Krishnas, atheists, and other groups. His scholarship and advocacy have been cited in the Supreme Court and several federal courts of appeals.