Religion and public schools. Do you agree or disagree?

[xeroinfinity]

Originally Posted by DinanM3_S2

I believe that public school resources should not be devoted to the education of a specific religion. Public schools in America are struggling enough as is, why put that stress on the system. I would much rather a school buy more books and equipment, or hire teachers that specialize in something that all students can benefit from, like literature, foreign language, science, etc.

That's the best idea I've heard all week!

[lakwo]

Do I think religion should be taught in school? I would agree with some of the others in that the history of religion should be offered as an elective starting in high school. Not just christian history but a short historical overview of all the different types of religions out there. The teaching of religious beliefs however is something that is better left up to the parents to teach their children.

[Damien]

Most rules in the Bible are rules int he real world...the basics. No cursing (rule and law), don't kill (law), don't lie (rule) etc.

As for the teaching, I couldn't care less. Let them teach it if that how it goes. Either way, teachers need to make more money first. An issue that should be addressed first.

[mellowboy]

Originally Posted by DinanM3_S2

The only context in which I see religion as being ok is history classes. You can't fully understand certain events or time periods without understanding the religious influences. I don't understand how someone could learn about the Crusades without understanding Christianity and Islam, or the Reformation without understanding Protestant/Catholic differences.

That I can agree. It's nice for everyone to get an idea about histories in religions and cultures.