Dubious Declaration: Colson's 'Manhattan' Coalition Longs for Theocratic Past

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There was a time in America--and it really wasn't that long ago--when powerful religious groups worked in conjunction with government officials to impose narrow theological precepts on everyone.

As recently as the early 1960s, it was difficult for even married couples to access artificial contraception in some states, and books, movies and plays were often subjected to "screening" by censorship boards dominated by clerics. Children in public schools were often compelled to take part in prayer, Bible reading and other religious activities.

Activism by concerned citizens and court rulings put a stop to much of this. Most Americans would agree that is a good thing.