The free exercise of religion as established by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution has always been among the most treasured of American rights. Lately, it has been the subject of debate and heightened scrutiny. The American Bishops have argued that certain provisions of the Affordable Care Act (a.k.a. Obama Care) are in direct violation of the First Amendment insofar as they would require Catholic institutions to provide certain health benefits that stand in opposition to Catholic ethical teaching.

 September 18: What is a Law? Liberalism and American Jurisprudence
 September 26: What is Freedom? Modern Ideas Regarding “Free-Will”
October 3: What is Religious Freedom? Comparing the First Amendment to
 Vatican II’s “Declaration on Religious Freedom”