Why ‘Under God’ is in the Pledge of Allegiance and How It Doesn’t Force Religion
Contrary to popular belief, the phrase 'under God' in the Pledge of Allegiance is deeply rooted in historical and social contexts. This article delves into the reasons behind its addition and explores why it does not force religious beliefs onto citizens.
Historical Context and the Cold War
The phrase 'under God' was first added to the Pledge of Allegiance during the Cold War era. In the 1950s, the United States was in a staunch ideological struggle against the spread of communism. The Soviet Union's rejection of religion, particularly its atheistic stance, posed a significant challenge to American values. By inserting 'under God,' the Pledge underscored the importance of religious freedom and contrasted American ideals with those of the communist bloc.
The Foundations of Religious Freedom
A key argument in support of the phrase 'under God' is its alignment with the American founding principles of religious freedom. As noted by historian Robert Greene, 'whatever Christian sect you choose!' succinctly encapsulates the broader concept of religious liberty that was central to the Founding Fathers. The establishment clause of the First Amendment aims to protect this freedom by preventing the government from establishing a state religion. The inclusion of 'under God' does not violate this clause, as it does not make any specific religious claims but rather affirms the overall value of religious belief.
Is 'Under God' Mandatory?
Another common misconception is that reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, including the 'under God' phrase, is mandatory. However, the Supreme Court has explicitly ruled that individuals have the right to omit the phrase if they choose to do so. The case of West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette (1943) established that public schools are not allowed to compel students to recite the Pledge, including the controversial 'under God' phrase.
Other Countries with State Religions
It is important to note that while the United States does not have an official state religion, some countries do. For instance, Islam is the state religion in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh; Christianity is the state religion in Greece, Denmark, and Iceland, as well as in some Latin American countries like Costa Rica and Argentina; Buddhism is the state religion in Bhutan, Cambodia, and Thailand; and Judaism is the state religion of Israel. Here are a few examples:
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is an example of a country with an official state religion, where Islam is both the dominant religion and the basis for the nation's laws and social norms.
Israel
Israel maintains a close relationship between religion and state, with Judaism being officially recognized as the state religion despite the country's diverse population.
Conclusion
The phrase 'under God' in the Pledge of Allegiance reflects a historical and contemporary commitment to religious freedom and democratic ideals. It does not force religious beliefs onto citizens who might prefer to omit it, and it aligns with the principles set forth in the First Amendment. While some may see it as a nod to specific religious beliefs, others view it as a celebration of the broader importance of faith in American life.