Islam and secularism

Jonathan Rowe examines the "founders" and the basis of American secularism, here. He does an interesting thing. He quotes Jefferson and Washington's Inaugural Address instead of just pulling assumptions out of his ass like Doug does.

The paradox is, the rights of conscience are so profound government has no business saying what is true or false religion. Yet, government indeed does have an interest in promoting the 'right' kind of religion, that is religion compatible with liberal democratic, secular, pluralistic norms. Our Founders did to Christianity what the modern liberal governments and institutions, are, or ought to be doing to Islam (like telling folks extreme Islam doesn't represent authentic Islam).

And ever since the founders created this completely secular government, the Christians have been eroding those protections like ocean waves on a rock. It's a steady assault.

I find it just bizarre that the Christian right wing in America is attempting to do exactly what they despise in Muslim countries. It is vital to the safety and future of this world that all nations adopt strictly secular ideals.

Rowe recognizes the vital struggle to free ourselves from the bonds of religious entanglements, and how important it is for Muslims to reject theocracy.

The relief is coming;

More Americans — 72 percent — now say that "generally, things in the country are seriously off on the wrong track" than at any time since the Times/CBS News poll began asking the question in 1983. The figure had been in the high 60's earlier this year.

Americans are disgusted to unprecedented levels. They understand it is Bush and the conservative christian right wing that is doing this incredible damage to America.

There is a sweeping and lasting liberalisation of this nation coming very soon. It will mean the death of the right wing christian movement. There is no doubt.