Article Title
Abstract
This Article examines issues posed by the equation of religious liberty with secular conscience, utilizing federal law and the law in those states which have adopted religious freedom restoration acts (RFRAs). The Article initially addresses the definition of religion through an examination of applicable literature and federal and state case law. The same approach is utilized to define conscience. The Article then examines similarities between the two concepts and the implications of their equivalence. The Article concludes that religion and conscience are moral equivalents that require equal legal treatment. However, equal treatment should proceed with caution in order to address potential negative consequences.
Recommended Citation
Lucien J. Dhooge,
The Equivalence of Religion and Conscience,
31
Notre Dame J.L. Ethics & Pub. Pol'y
253
(2017).
Available at:
https://scholarship.law.nd.edu/ndjlepp/vol31/iss2/1
Included in
Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibility Commons, Religion Law Commons, Sexuality and the Law Commons, State and Local Government Law Commons