05/2010 - Church & the Bayou State: Religion in Louisiana

1. Please tell whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with the following statements:

The first amendment clearly supports the separation between church and state.

2. The United States was founded as a Christian nation.

3. When it comes to Louisiana state government, do you feel there is a clear separation between church and state, or would you say there is not a clear separation between church and state?

4. In your opinion, what is the place of religion in state politics?

5. Now, in thinking about the role of religion in public education, do you support prayer in public schools?

6. If yes, do you think the absence of prayer in public schools contributes to social decay?

7. Let’s talk about the issues of creationism and evolution. Please tell whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with the following statements:

Creationism, which is defined as the religious belief that humanity, life, the Earth, and the universe are the creation of a supernatural agency, should be taught in public schools.

8. Evolution, which is defined as the change in the inherited traits of a population of organisms through successive generations, should be taught in public schools.

9. In general, what one word best describes your impression of the role religion plays in public life these days? Just use the first word that comes to mind.