Robomatic's post is eloquent and it demonstrates one of America's most heroic and endearing myths. We all believe it at least part of the time. But religion and religious feeling is playing an increasing part in our national politics. European history shows how destructive that can be. It began to become apparent when mandatory school prayer was outlawed and picked up momentum when abortion was legalized. There can be little doubt that evangelical protestant organizations played a role, perhaps a crucial one in the recent election. They think so and are already demanding paybacks.

Likeable, friendly, tolerant individuals are everywhere. So are intolerant groups. The amazing thing is how many otherwise good people support causes that are intolerant.