The American Model of Religious Pluralism

Abstract

The United States is one of the most diverse nations in the world. Various approaches to managing religious diversity have emerged throughout the country’s history. The most important foundational document of American religious pluralism is the first amendment to the US constitution which prohibited the government from recognizing a specific religious belief system or giving privileges to any religious group. These rules aim to preserve the unique foundations on which American society is established. Since September 11,2001, the American experience of religious pluralism has attracted increasing interest. The attacks not only reshaped global responses to terrorism, but they also raised new questions on religious diversity. The founding fathers used civil religion to bridge divisions and develop a common civic identity. This study explores the unique American experience of managing religious pluralism, covering both the legal and sociocultural aspects. It examines the main foundations of American religious pluralism, including the constitutional principles and the influence of civil religion. Though historical analysis and an examination of contemporary studies, this research aims to provide insights into the American approach to religious diversity and its relationship with civil religion.