Let's assume the following definitions:

1) Political systems create universal, institutional structures that provide for the common needs of all citizens. No citizen can choose which structures to opt in or out of.
 

and

2) Religious systems create mythic, ethical, and ritual guidelines to structure the needs of all adherents. No adherent can choose which guidelines to opt in or out of.

What are different methods by which these two collective sets of interests can be reconciled? When are they irreconcilable? And what does it mean to have to "choose" between politics and religion?

Consider any of the following situations in which political interest and religious interests are believed to be contradictory. What is the basis for deciding which interests are more important? And what assumptions do you find yourself making (about "good" versus "bad" religion, and "good" versus "bad" politics) in evaluating them? (In each case, some links are provided to guide your thinking.)

1. The French ban on "conspicuous religious symbols in public schools," which has ended up focusing particularly on young French women in headscarves (voiles).

• Political interest: "We maintain that the public school is a religiously neutral space: obvious religious signs can be seen as coercive, divisive, and even physically dangerous when it leads to promotion of religion in secular sectors."

• Religious interest: "We believe that all personal conduct should be guided by religious ethics and beliefs: banning certain clothes is tantamount to prohibiting religious beliefs and ethics."

Can you think of other situations in which public displays of religious identity might conflict with the political interests of a government?

2. The Canadian government's denial of immigration status to a woman who is part of a polygamous marriage.

• Political interest: "We fear that polygamous households are unsafe environments, but for the often underaged wives and the many children who cannot be supported."

• Religious interest: "We believe that families are private institutions that should be guided by personal philosophies (such as religions) and not the state."

Can you think of other situations in which governmental regulation of family welfare might conflict with religious interests and ideals?

3. The Amish refusal to pay Social Security taxes in the United States, and the ensuing conflict with the Federal government.

• Political interest: "All citizens have a responsibility to care for their less fortunate compatriots: Social Security provides a safety net in old age."

• Religious interest: "Our religion forbids participating in insurance programs; if we refuse to receive Social Security, we should not have to pay into it."

Can you think of other situations in which religious duties would provent someone from joining in mandatory political service?