Should state and church be separated?

Why should church and state not be separated?

• Answer:

  Emperor Constantine insisted that Church and state not be separated, saying to the bishops, "My will be done." He demonstrated the usefulness of keeping Church and state together, as he could control Church appointments, provide imperial input into religious doctrine and generally use the Church as an arm of imperial government. Religious leaders were well funded and enjoyed imperial prestige, while the state could to some extent decide what was taught by the churches and even decide which Christian sects to support and which to suppress. The modern nation of Iran demonstrates other practical benefits of keeping religion and government together. The religious authorities have the power of veto over any laws proposed by the secular authorities and can impose their will on parliament. Should they wish to do so, the religious authorities can use the power of parliament to persecute or disband any non-Muslim religion. As long as freedom of religion is not a priority, history shows there are practical advantages for some in preventing separation of Church and state.