Law, Education and Religion — Pathways to the Good Society?

Abstract

This paper is a revised version of the 2019 Clark Lecture, delivered at the Sydney Opera House, 31 October 2019. The argument of the paper is organised around contrasting definitions of law, education and religion, and how those definitions reflect views about the nature and contribution of each to the formation of a good society. It is argued that the contributions of law, education and religion are dependent on each doing what it alone can do best, without attempting to substitute for or displace the others. Law without religion can only require outward conformity and punish when there is disobedience; it cannot redirect the heart. Education without religion can only inform the mind and train the hand; it cannot convert the soul. Law and education therefore need to leave room for religion, so that religion can do what it alone is capable of: soften the heart and redirect the will.