| This research was written to provide a comprehensive analysis of the literature documenting the religious trends in the history of American public schools, analyzing the factors that played a part in the changes made by court decisions influenced by and cultural mores and religious pluralism. By providing information on the legal guidelines and rationale for religion in public schools, it is the researcher's desire to motivate more public schools to implement classes that teach about religion. Today, public schools are making a concerted effort to include teaching about religion wherever appropriate. Most schools choose to include religion in literature, humanities, social studies, and occasionally science. Literature provides the most widely accepted avenue for teaching religion. The Bible provides one of the few written accounts of human history and insight into the lives of the ancient people and places. However, science provides the most controversial area for teaching about religion. Lawsuits and government influence have narrowed the focus of teaching about religion; however, it is legally acceptable to teach about religion and religious topics have even been shown to be a positive influence on students. |
