Address the following questions:
1. The doctrine of the "separation of church and state" has been very significant for American political thought. How do politics and government influence religion? How does religion influence politics and government? In your opinion, what should the relationships among them be?
2. Are Taoism and Confucianism truly religions? Argue both sides.
3. Many in the West are familiar with the samurai and his warrior code. Westerners have been especially fascinated with his willingness to commit suicide before facing dishonor. Why does this notion seem so foreign to Westerners? What religious ideals are embodied by the samurai?