Religion and politics

It seems that we are one of the last Western nations that takes religion seriously. Secularism is on the rise in newly resurgent Europe, but here "family values," which is (let's be honest) a code-word for conservative Christian values, and "the evangelical vote" are what matters.

How much of our national debate is framed in religious terms? America is "good," while terrorists are "evil." We are asked, again and again, to believe with full hearts and blank minds in the president and his administration, and exhorted to cast the unbelievers (that's us) out, or at least not give them much face time on TV.

How can reason and policy compete against the pure emotional appeal of religion? Some, like ZZ Parker, want us to find religion (Salon article, you'll have to watch the commercial). Others, like Susan Jacoby, want us to remain secular.

It's a pickle. The CW says, get religion or become irrelevant. Run a Southern Baptist or never win a red state.

What do we do?