What does freedom of religion mean?

Freedom of religion means that individuals have the right to choose their beliefs and practices concerning religion without interference from the government. This encompasses both the freedom to practice any religion of one's choosing and the freedom to refrain from practicing any religion at all.

The principle of freedom of religion is rooted in the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, which states that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. This ensures that people can live according to their own beliefs, whether that means following a particular faith, adhering to a different belief system, or choosing to be agnostic or atheist.

This understanding of freedom of religion is crucial in promoting a pluralistic society where diverse beliefs coexist, and it protects the rights of individuals from government coercion in matters of faith. Options suggesting compulsory practice of a religion or mandating non-practice do not align with the tenets of freedom of religion, nor do they uphold the principles set by the Constitution. Additionally, the idea that only recognized religions can be practiced undermines the very essence of individual freedom in choosing personal beliefs.