Separating Church and State or Guaranteeing Religious Expression?

Abstract

How is religious controversy resolved? Although no definitive and agreed-on rule exists for determining constitutionally appropriate standards for sectarian behavior in the public workplace, an assessment of current research provides a framework to understand the diverse interests that this controversial issue engenders. This article traces the historical and legal evolution of the separation of church and state, provides a framework that more clearly defines salient issues, and poses recommendations for the public employer who faces the controversies created by the clash of secular and sectarian interests. In so doing, the article aims to provide both the public employer and employee with a deeper understanding of the complex issues concerning religious expression in the workplace.

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