We are built on a structure of the freedom of religion and the non-establishment of religion. That really is a pretty sturdy rudder for the U.S.

My whole worldview has changed because of the work that I do. Specifically, the way in which I appropriate my own faith as a Christian, and the way in which I think about the faith and life of others who are very different than myself. That mutuality of regard is how we deal with difference and diversity in the world.

People get tired of talking about American exceptionalism, but I think this is an extraordinary thing about the United States, that we are a nation of immigrants, first of all, that is built upon a pluralistic society of native people that were here to begin with. The issue of diversity is really with us from the beginning.

Pluralism isn't just diversity; it's something we create out of this diversity.

We tend to gravitate towards our tribes; the challenge is to understand the people of other tribes.

The idea that the United States government would have to figure out what to do about the headscarf is simply ludicrous. We don't get involved in that.

India is simply dotted with pilgrimage places, and with teachers and very powerful spiritual guides.