The Religious Factor In American Presidential Elections

The United States of America advocates the freedom of thought and the innovation of institution, but it is also one of the most religious among the western countries. Although the first amendment to the Constitution stipulates clearly the separation of church and state, this separation is between church and state, rather than separation between religion and politics. Religion plays an important role in American politics, from moral issues to foreign policy.To some extent, the United States is a product of religious revolution. Religion is the foundation of morality; morality is the details of ethnic culture; and ethnic culture is the basis of politics. The Judeo-Christian traditions and values constitute American core morality and have a great impact on both American society and American individuals. The existence of religion and its changes in history play an important role in American society, politics and culture.The thesis consists of four chapters:Chapter One aims to set up a clear framework for the whole thesis. Firstly, it gives a general survey of the current situation of religion in the United States. In these two or three decades, American religions take on such trends as the decline of mainline churches and the rise of evangelical churches, along with the diversity and secularization of religions. Secondly, it explains the status of religion in American society. As the most developed country with a strong religious color, the United States was built on religion. Thirdly, it illustrates the influence of religion on American politics.