Ethics and religion are interrelated concepts, but this synergy remains inadequately explained. Moreover, this issue’s final point cannot be reached since both concepts are relative and not measured by standard methods. The Westboro Baptist Church case reveals a controversial decision allowing religious activists to express their perspective at a funeral. This conclusion is a legal ruling due to the First Amendment, but it is contrary to ethical standards based on the right to privacy and mutual respect, even if opinions are radically different.
The Westboro Baptist Church case describes the legitimacy of religious members who protested at the funeral of Lance Cpl. Matthew Snyder. The group argued that God punished the soldier and society for allowing homosexuality and free choice of citizens (McCombs School of Business, 2019). The court ruled that it did not violate the law because of the First Amendment. However, it is an ethical offense, as church members attacked at an emotionally painful moment for the deceased’s family and ignored their right to privacy. This situation was inspected with double standards, as funeral attendees had similar rights to express emotion and grief as they desired. Besides, the case contradicts Christian canons, as the protesters preached hatred and enmity (Iwuagwu, 2018). Thus, although the picket was recognized as legally justified, it violates social life’s ethical principles.
Protests at a soldier’s funeral are both a legal and ethical dilemma under applicable law. The court ruled that this was constitutional, but that was not an explanation for the offended Matthew Snyder family. Faith is an individual choice, and the imposition of a church position on people in crisis is not an ethical norm. Thus, the Westboro Baptist Church violated the basic Christian commandments about universal welfare and respect.
References
Iwuagwu, E. (2018). The relationship between religion and morality: On whether the multiplicity of religious denominations have impacted positively on socio-ethical behavior. Global Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, 6(9), 42-53.
McCombs School of Business. (2019). Legal rights & ethical responsibilities [Video file]. Web.