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CHOICE Review

In six clear, crisp chapters Mooney elucidates the link between religion and state in the formulation of public policy. Chapter 1 examines the notions of the ``public church'' (i.e., the public role of religion) and ``public virtue.'' Mooney raises questions about the legitimate relationship between church and state through the example of the Moral Majority. In Chapter 2, Mooney correctly notes that the conflict between church and state ultimately remains an individual problem of balancing one's perspective as citizen and one's perspective as member or nonmember of a religion. He analyzes our commitment to religious pluralism, religious freedom, and government neutrality. Chapter 3 is devoted to an analysis of law as a minimum, necessary, and incomplete standard for public morality. Chapter 4 offers a stimulating analysis of law as a vocation, and focuses on problem areas endemic to the functioning of America's legal culture. Chapter 5 proves particularly timely in light of recent disclosures concerning the Iranian arms deal. The presidential decision-making process is examined from the point of view of our response to the sinking of the Lusitania. The final chapter explores briefly the development of natural law theory and relates back to ideas discussed in Chapter 1 concerning the public nature of private beliefs. The endnotes are excellent, and make up for the absence of a bibliography. Highly recommended for college and public libraries; for professionals and general readers.-M.A. Foley, Marywood College