How has the Supreme Court interpreted the establishment of religion clauses?

The Establishment of Religion Clauses are in the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. The Supreme Court has interpreted these Clauses as preventing a government from establishing an official religion and infringing on freedom of religion. In addition, the Supreme Court has held that the Establishment Clause has two components—the prohibition on government endorsement or disapproval of religion and the prohibition on government advancement of religion. The Supreme Court has interpreted the Establishment Clause to mean that the government may not prefer or endorse one religion over another, or show an excessive entanglement with religion. This includes prohibiting the government from requiring prayer or other forms of religious observance in public schools, although it does not prevent students from praying voluntarily. The Supreme Court has also held that the government may not promote religion by providing financial aid or benefits to religious institutions, such as providing subsidies for religious schools or allowing tax-deductible donations to churches. The Supreme Court also held that the government may not place religious symbols, such as crucifixes and Ten Commandments monuments, in public places. The Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Establishment Clause is intended to protect freedom of religion and prevent an establishment of religion by the government. As such, the Supreme Court has taken a broad view of the Establishment Clause in its rulings, meaning that the government has a limited role in the promotion of religion.

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How has the Supreme Court interpreted the establishment of religion clauses?

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