This has been an interesting news week for discussions of politics and religion. First we have James Dobson, evangelical leader, criticizing Barack Obama's view of scripture because he is not a literalist. Dobson is the host of the popular conservative, evangelical radio program "Focus on the Family". His scathing denunciations of liberals are legendary. But this time, as my aunt used to say -- "the one finger that pointed out was on a hand with four pointed back at the sender." Translation: backfire.

The Pew Forum on Religious and Pubic Life has released Part II of the US Religious Landscape Survey. There are some surprising results. The majority of Americans affiliated with a religion do not believe that their religion is the only path to salvation. Generally, Americans believe that there are even multiple ways to look at their own religion. The over 35,000 persons surveyed showed a surprising openness to differing beliefs and faith practices.