How do religious leaders shape public policy decisions? And how do policymakers grapple with issues affecting religious ideas, institutions and individuals? Through the case study method, students will explore the substantive and leadership issues at play in some of the most challenging church-state matters facing the country today, including whether, when and how to exempt religious individuals and institutions from generally applicable laws; the rules for government funding of programs offered by faith-based institutions; efforts to counter violence committed in the name of religion; and U.S. strategies to promote religious freedom and other human rights around the globe. Additionally, the course will focus on the role faith has played in the lives and leadership styles of U.S. presidents.