Is liberal democracy hostile to religion or is it compatible with the rights of believers? These essays are a reminder that, in an increasingly pluralistic society, Americans must work continually to reconcile religious commitment and political obligation.

Is liberal democracy hostile to religion or is it compatible with the rights of believers? Prominant scholars analyze the controversy about religious freedom by examining two areas at the intersection of religion and politics in contemporary American society: the Supreme Court's 1990 decision in Oregon versus Smith and the events of the 2000 presidential campaign. These essays are a reminder that, in an increasingly pluralistic society, Americans must work continually to reconcile religious commitment and political obligation.