In North America a great many theologically incompatible religions, collectively known as Christianity, continue to try to control government, despite violating a well-known principle of good government, the separation of church and state or political secularism. Can freedom of religion and secular government co-exist? The answer is yes; freedom of religion even requires secular government.
For religious conservatives, freedom of religion means freedom of their religion; it includes the right to guide and control government. But there are many religions and many gods. Religions are organizations for marketing their ideologies; most seek greater market share and ultimately monopoly and political control. Based on sacred text, religions preach their theologies as beyond question, yet beyond evidence - a matter of faith, somehow superior to others, which may then be despised. This is brand loyalty with a vengeance!
Freedom of religion cannot be limited to one religion. It must mean equal freedom of religions and irreligion. If religions are to coexist as equals, they must be required to respect the law, each other and the irreligious. Freedom of any one religion cannot be absolute, otherwise peace, rule of law and political community are impossible.
Speaker: Dr. Michael Kubara has been a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Lethbridge for 34 years. He holds a B.A. from New Hampshire, an M.A. and Ph.D. from Waterloo. He has specialized in value theory and philosophy of law. During his years in Lethbridge Dr. Kubara has spoken on a wide range of issues in ethics and public policy. He is no stranger to the Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs.