A Child’s Right to Religious Autonomy: A Response to Hugh LaFollette

Mrs. Amy Davison, MA
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In this paper, Amy Davison evaluates philosopher Hugh LaFollette’s arguments against the use of the first amendment as justification for the removal of children from public school curriculum which their Christian parents find offensive.

First, this paper evaluates the use of the first amendment in the case of Mozert v. Hawkins County School Board as well as LaFollette’s concerns over the potential for religious indoctrination of the children.

Second, it expounds upon LaFollette’s support of John Stuart Mill’s argument for religious freedom while giving practical advice for parents to raise their children in the faith without violating their budding autonomy.

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