Final answer:
The idea that the United States was founded on what people believe, not on who they are, can be debated in today's context.
Step-by-step explanation:
The idea that this nation was founded on what people believe, not on who they are, can be debated in today's context. While the United States was indeed founded on the principles of religious freedom, the extent to which we adhere to this ideal varies. Respect for people's right to practice any belief system is influenced by factors such as religion, race, gender, and nationality.
For example, historical events like the ongoing struggles for civil rights by marginalized groups indicate that the full realization of this idea is not yet achieved. While Americans agree in the abstract on upholding values like equality and justice, the specific application of these values can be contentious and prone to historical revisionism.
Overall, while the United States strives to uphold the principles it was founded on, the reality is that the interpretation and implementation of these ideals are influenced by various factors, which can impact how true this idea is in practice.