Skip to main content
Article
Pluralist Establishment: Reflections on the English Experience
Journal Articles
  • Robert E. Rodes, Notre Dame Law School
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-1991
Publication Information
12 Cardozo L. Rev. 867 (1990 - 1991)
Abstract

England's historical and current synthesis of Church and State differs greatly from other European and American experiences. It contrasts sharply with the path taken by most states, which chose to cope with religious pluralism by privatizing religion and by trying to base public life on secular views of human nature. This paper reviews the unique inception, and continuance, of the church-state throughout English history. It also reviews the unique manner in which England chose to deal with religious pluralism while maintaining its established church. After reviewing the English experience of establishment of religion, this paper concludes that the total wall of separation which the United States has placed between Church and State is neither necessary nor desirable. Allowing for some integration of Church and State firmly incorporates the universality of many human concerns into an otherwise secular culture and safeguards against denial of the transcendence of the human person.

Comments

Reprinted with permission of the Cardozo Law Review.

Citation Information
Robert E. Rodes. "Pluralist Establishment: Reflections on the English Experience" (1991)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/robert_rodes/11/