Amos, have you considered the fact that virtually all our civil laws are based on moral and philosophical concepts that have come down to us through religion?

Think about it. It is utterly impossible to separate religious thought from civil law. This does not mean, however, that civil law should be under the management of the clergy! Hardly.

s6k - I am trying to grasp how a Buddhist could possibly indulge in launching a thread concerning "A fart on your houses". It doesn't add up. :-) Buddhism is indeed an excellent philosophy, full of wisdom. So is Taoism. Check it out if you get a chance.