A Bridge Too Far...

I agree with Matt Yglesias that sometimes contesting strictly symbolic issues is a waste of time, but his example of permitting the posting of the 10 commandments in public places is going a little too far for me. While references to God in the pledge of allegiance and on money is pretty harmless as far as I'm concerned, a public endorsement of a specific religious creed is beyond the pale. One could argue that all of the major monotheistic religions recognize the validity of the 10 commandments, but what in the world are Hindus, Buddhists, etc. supposed to do? And what do we tell people who don't believe in any God at all?

So sorry Matt. I agreed with your formal argument, namely that we should let the minor stuff slide to focus on major issues. But the 10 commandments is NOT symbolic. It would amount to a piece of religious propaganda in the public square, which is incompatible with religious liberty.

On another note, I'm glad to hear that a solid majority continues to think that abortion rights should be protected. Score one for the good guys.