Chapter six begins with the Pledge of Allegiance and states an argument how the words “under God” should not be presented. Having this phrase in the Pledge of Allegiance is a violation of the separation between church and state. However, the main influence of this phrase is that fact that the United States growth is in constitute towards the Christion religion.
Huntington speaks about the fact that the Pledge of Allegiance argument was taken to court. He says, “The court agreed that the words ‘under God’ sent ‘a message to unbelievers that they are outsiders, not full members of the political community.’…atheists are ‘outsiders’ in the American community. As unbelievers, they do not have to recite the Pledge or to engage in any religiously tainted practice of which they disapprove…however, do not have the right to impose their atheism on all those Americans whose beliefs now and historically have defined America as a religious nation” (Huntington 82). Overall, America was built on Christian faith, opinions and views have been created because of this religion, which Americans are very prominent about. Even though America is built on this view, does not mean other religions are turned away and neglected, they are equally accepted to an extent. The Pledge of Allegiance is more than just these two words, “under God.” It is a symbol of words that brings our country together and gains respect for those who have fought in the past and those who are fighting for our safety today.
Huntington’s quote reminds me of when President Trump was elected. At this time I was a junior in high school. Every morning, my school would say the Pledge of Allegiance and prayers, however the very next morning after elections a girl in my grade sat during the Pledge of Allegiance rather than stand. Of course this created drama within the school. Agreeing with Huntington’s opinion, if you view this girl as an atheists then she should not impose her views on those around her. There is a huge significance in defending your opinions, however disrespecting America as a whole is not the way to do it. This correlates with the atheists (along with other religions) wanting to change America’s history altogether by getting rid of the words “under God.” In the end, America historically is a religion nation and will always be documented as one. You are free to practice whatever religion or no religion, however you should still respect America’s history.