Should we teach religion in public schools?

Question

I don't mean teaching it in place of science, or even in humanities. I think it should examined as part of a Logic and Rhetoric curriculum, aimed at teaching children to separate fact from fiction.
For example, children could look at the Biblical story of the Virgin Birth. Viewed in the context of, like, reality, one sees that there are far more compelling explanations than to say that a miracle occured. They could also read through the unending series of Thou-Shalt-Nots in Leviticus and Deuteronomy, and ponder what sort of reasons a tribe might have for declaring that wearing clothing made of different fibers was morally reprehensible.

I think such a class could help instill our children with strong analytical skills, so they will recognize nutjobs like Jim Jones or David Koresh and not drink the kool-aid. They would also learn to think critically of "faith", and only accept what is rational instead of whatever hogwash their parents and preachers throw at them.

Answer 1

Wow, when I first saw the question I screamed NO NO NO!

Then I READ the question and I have to wonder if perhaps it isn't a decent idea, in theory at least.

Of course, the problem is that all the nut jobs out there would be screaming about it so you cannot win...

I think there are ways to teach children the critical thinking skills that you mentioned without having to go to religion directly, that way NO ONE can get up in arms about denigrating their faith or not giving equal time blah blah blah...

I don't think, honestly, that logic, and critical/rational thinking skills are things that most people really want their children learning. After all, then they WOULD be prepared and wouldn't just mindlessly suck up all the crap they are fed from a young age, or at least they would be able to make up their own minds...

That is a scary thought for most folks I think..

Good Question!

Answer 2

Interesting. I don't think public school has any place to make determinations regarding any religion (i.e. this makes sense, this does not)--I'm sure the courts would rule that to be a violation of the establishment clause. I'm all for teaching comparative religion as part of a humanities course though. On the other hand, I do agree with you that logic is sorely missing from the public education system. I believe a course in logic should be required for graduation from high school.

Wow, it's amazing how many didn't read your full question!

Answer 3

I think yes.Everyone even atheist and I used to be one should at least have an idea and understanding of what is in the bible.You make good points but I would like to add that people who are really unaware of all religion are unaware of a big part of our culture.Even if you're not religious it can't be denied that our culture and civilization are highly influenced by religion and someone who has absolutely no idea what you're talking about if you make a biblical reference looks foolish and uneducated for sure.
So I think it's the duty of public schools to teach ABOUT religion without forcing anyone to believe or not to believe.
Parents can if they wish do more.

Answer 4

I think to teach children theology from an early age would allow them to form their own honest opinions about religion which would be far more rounded than should they be segregated to a school based on a particular religion.

To be given insight into the basis of a number of religions would be hugely beneficial to the theological development of a child. Personally I think this should be established within public schools.

Answer 5

The particular curriculum you suggested sounds a little close-minded to me, and potentially offensive. The angle seems to be heavily on the side of disproving religion, rather than an objective analysis.

I agree that a "History of Religion" class might be beneficial, to simply provide a historical overview of how major religions arose, their impact on the world, and the important tenets of each. This would help everyone to understand other religions and the basis for their beliefs. The course should be an elective, of course.

But a simple "Logic Kills Religion" class is a bit unfair, I think. If we agree that religion should not be taught in public schools, than neither should religion-bashing.

Answer 6

I do think theology has a place in public schools, but it is a wide ranging subject. How much of the curriculum will cover the study of the Koran, The Bible, Hindu, Buddhism, Shintoism, Taoism, the various religions of the native Americans, what about the beliefs of agnostics, and the wiccans? How many forms of organized religions are going to be covered...is it a mandatory class or voluntary?...I think if you just limit the classes to the bible, many students that follow different religions will be discriminated against?...Are you then going to teach the children about the truths of santa claus, easter bunny...ect?....what grade do you start...how many hours...where do you stop?

Answer 7

There is no way they could fairly cover every religion in school. And if they picked and choose which religions they wanted to teach, that would be discrimination.

Religion's a personal matter which should be discovered on your own time. Not paid for by the state. (Separation of church and state and all...)

Answer 8

No, it would creat too much of a divide in children. I think with all the different religions in the schools it would too confusing. I do not like all the limitations being put on schools these days, but this is a touchy one. I do think that in area where everyone is Catholic, you should be able to. But for the mast part, it sounds good in theory but would never work out, people have seen that his thing is optional.

Answer 9

No, your suggestion would be religiously intolerant, and I think you know it. The bible shouldn't be placed anywhere near a school building, unless that person is already mature enough to have formed their own ideas about religion. Theology is a perfectly fine subject to major in but by choice. It shouldn't be taught to impressionable young kids, still young enough to be dramatically influenced. It'd be wrong to do that. To pick a part the bible and try to examine it in a scientific context, would be pointless, when the book in and of itself, is, for better or for worse, based completely on faith, not necessarily on factual evidence(that's not a blow at the bible, by the way). It would also anger quite a few people. So,no it's not a good idea, not by a long shot.

Answer 10

I am a Christian but I am reluctant to have religion taught in our schools. I believe that it should be taught in the church, synagogue or mosque by a qualified teacher of religion.
I fear that an unqualified person could be teaching our children....a person that may be an unbeliever, or a person that has little interest or ability in teaching something that could have a great influence on that child's view of religion.