Claim: Prayer should be allowed in public schools, but should not be forced.
Data: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Warrant: Because the Constitution guarantees that no religion shall be forced onto citizens, students should not be forced to participate in other religions. Sure, students have a freedom of speech so that they can pray in school with one another, but they cannot force others into their beliefs.
Backing/Qualifier: As a Christian, I would want nothing more than for teachers and school officials to openly pray with their students. However, I understand that some students would feel uncomfortable with prayer out in the open so their rights given by the first ammendment should be respected. I know a few students who do not participate in any religious activities and would feel very awkward during a morning prayer in a class room.
Reservation: I understand that sometimes prayer is acceptable in schools, and even necessary, such as in a case where a religious club plans an activity or a student is severly hurt. If the students agree to pray together then that’s fine, but all students should be asked permission.
justread Said:
on February 8, 2009 at 1:55 am
Nice argument you’ve constructed. The only problem is the backing. Backing is additional evidence that “backs-up” your warrant and thus your claim. The backing, then, should be stat, expert or personal testimony, additional facts–evidence.
…Makes Me Furious » Blog Archive » Should Prayer Be Allowed in Public Schools ? « Lines That Keep You Said:
on February 9, 2009 at 12:29 pm
[...] Backing/Qualifier: As a Christian, I would want nothing more than for teachers and school officials to openly pray with their students. However, I understand that some students would feel uncomfortable with prayer out in …Page 2 [...]