First Amendment to the United States Constitution

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is a part of the United States Bill of Rights. Textually, it prevents the U.S. Congress from infringing on six rights. It forbids laws that:

Free exercise of religion

Main article: Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment

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The free exercise clause has often been interpreted to include two freedoms: the freedom to believe, and the freedom to act. The former liberty is absolute, while the latter often faces state restriction. Jehovah's Witnesses, a religious group, was often the target of such restriction. Several cases involving the Witnesses permitted the Court to expound the free exercise clause. The Warren Court adopted the "compelling interest" doctrine, whereby a state must show a compelling interest in restricting religion-related activities, but later decisions have reduced the scope of this interpretation.

Related Topics:
Jehovah's Witnesses - Warren Court

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