The Contested Place of Religion in Family Law

Like many beliefs religious views matter across an individual''s life and the life cycle of a family - from birth to marriage through child-rearing and eventually death. This volume examines clashes over religious liberty within the personal realm of the family. Against swirling religious beliefs secular values and legal regulation this volume offers a forward-looking examination of tensions between religious freedom and the state''s protective function. Contributors unpack some of the Court''s recent decisions and explain how they set the stage for ongoing disputes. They evaluate religious claims around birth control circumcision modesty religious education marriage polygamy shared parenting corporal punishment faith healing divorce and the end of life. Authors span legislators attorneys academics journalists ministers physicians child advocates and representatives of minority faiths. The Contested Place of Religion in Family Law begins an overdue conversation on questions dividing the nation.