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WHAT IF THE UNITED STATES HAD NO RELIGION??? - Page 2

© Su Epstein

Looking at religion in American culture, I suggest first we look for God. Is God present in the official aspects of the United States? For a country that suggests separation between church and state, god is very present. We pledge allegiance to being “one nation under god.” “In God We Trust” appears on our currency. Accepted religious leaders are present and lead prayers at official proceedings. We ask “God bless America” in song and speech.

Second, examine our celebrations or holidays. By looking at celebration we are also looking at what we value and think is important enough to alter our daily lives. Under what circumstance do our systems such as transportation and commerce shutdown. Do we shut down for Rosh Hashanah? Ramadan? Christmas? What are the holiday icons or symbols recognized by all? It is a Christmas Tree and later an Easter Egg Hunt that occur on the White House lawn.

These examples are instances of religion that are imbedded so deeply into our culture that often we do not notice them or even define them as religious in nature. Often if we do notice them, they are so familiar to us that we do not see them as norms or social rules that will be detrimental if gone against, but as parts of life accepted by all. Often it is hard to imagine a situation in which someone might disagree or be uncomfortable by these norms. It is precisely because these norms are so embedded in our culture and so familiar to us that makes those who disagree with these norms deviant.

For people in American society who do not believe in god or in one god or who do not practice a Judeo-Christian tradition these are social rules that serve to remind them daily they are ‘different’ and that by their beliefs they are breaking informal social rules. Likewise, since most people do not recognize these norms as such, they are unaware that they respond to those who have different beliefs as deviants.

The person who grumbles about the wording on our currency is likely to be met with a laugh and offer to take the money off their hands. Yet how would you expect American culture respond to a new currency that stated “The Goddess In All”? If a prayer circle honoring nature was held on the White House lawn, would it go as unnoticed as the Christmas tree?

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