Government Quote by John Paul Stevens
“The government must pursue a course of complete neutrality toward religion.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Supreme Court Confirmation Hearing, John Paul Stevens, 1981
The state should not favor or discriminate against any religion, maintaining impartiality in public affairs.
In simple terms: Government should stay neutral on religion.
Ensure policies treat all faiths equally.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public schooling
- government funding
- legislation
- judicial decisions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can laws stay neutral without ignoring religious influences?
- What risks arise when the state intervenes in religion?
Neutrality can be hard when cultural pressures favor a majority faith.