religion and politics in america Custom Essay

Answer 5 out of these 7 questions as completely as possible using the text book, class notes, and other sources. If you use sources other than the text book you must include a separate reference page and properly cite all sources.

1. Which religious groups did Barack Obama, John McCain and Mitt Romney gain support from in the 2008 and 2012 presidential elections? What strategies should candidates running for president in 2016 follow? What issues appeal to which religious groups?

2. Explain 5 factors that contribute to the relative success of religious-based lobby groups. What are 3 reasons for the recent growth in religious-based lobbying organizations? Discuss 3 differences between ?outside pressure? and ?inside influence? lobby strategies.

3. Describe the three varieties of ?separationist? organizations in the U.S. and give examples of each variety. Explain why each of these types of organizations would want to see a clear separation of church and state activities.

4. When might the Supreme Court put limits on religious actions in the U.S.? What are the general standards that would be applied when ruling on religious freedom? Explain 2 examples where the Court has not upheld religious actions under the 1st Amendment?

5. What is ?strict scrutiny? and how has the Supreme Court applied in cases dealing with free exercise of religion? How has it changed over time? Describe 2 cases where it was applied and explain how the court ruled in these cases.

6. Describe the debate between Congress and the Courts over issues of free exercise of religion in the U.S. What do the clashes between Congress and the Courts tell us about separation of powers in the U.S.

7. Describe at least 5 ?theories? or schools of thought? about religion and politics in the U.S. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each theory, in your opinion? Which one best describes the future of religion and politics in American society?

Guidelines: Each answer should be at least 2 pages in length (double-spaced, typed, with 12-font). in total should be about 10 pages. It should not be less than 8 nor more than 15 pages total. If using outside sources, be sure to include a reference page. Write in paragraph form and be sure to proofread.

NAME OF BOOK: religon and politics in america 4TH EDITION