Why should study about religion be included in the curriculum?
The Center addresses this question based on the principles found in the Religion in the Public School Curriculum: Questions and Answers, issued by a coalition of 17 major religious and educational organizations. Because religion plays a significant role in history and society, study about religion in essential to understanding both the nation and the world. Omission of facts about religion can give students the false impression that the religious life of humankind is insignificant or unimportant. Failure to understand even the basic symbols, practices, and concepts of the various religions makes much of history, literature, art and contemporary life unintelligent… How should I teach about religion? The First Amendment Center provides the following guidelines from the Religion in the Public School Curriculum to address this question: * The school’s approach to religion is academic, not devotional. * The school strives for student awareness of religions, but does not press for student
