Religion in the Public Sphere – A Critical Comparison of France and The United States

On March 15, 2004, in an act causing much unrest both domestically and internationally, the French government banned the wearing of any conspicuous religious symbols in public elementary, middle, and high schools. The title of the law reads [translated] “Law#2004-228 of March 15, 2004 concerning, as an application of the principle of the separation of church and state (“läicité”), the wearing of symbols or garb which show religious affiliation in public primary and secondary schools.” This law provides a fascinating springboard for the comparative studies of religious freedom in France and America. How can “separation of church and state” in America require the government to allow students to display their religious affiliations as they please (as long as it’s not harmful or disruptive), while in France the same concept dictates such exercise be banned? This essay will focus on the differences between religion in the public sphere in America and France, why this differences have arisen, and their consequences.Monroe Freshman Summer Grant/ Charles CenterCollege of William and Mary, Roy C. Charles Center, James Monroe Scholar Progra