12th December 2010
“Nobody says I should ‘respect’ conservatism or communism and keep my opposition to them to myself – but that’s exactly what is routinely said about Islam or Christianity or Buddhism. What’s the difference?”
“Nobody says I should ‘respect’ conservatism or communism and keep my opposition to them to myself – but that’s exactly what is routinely said about Islam or Christianity or Buddhism. What’s the difference?”
December 12th, 2010 at 14:41
It’s possible to reason for and against a political position. I have not yet seen a realistic defence of the notion that there is a god that takes an interest in human affairs.
This being so, religious folk don’t like to see anyone criticise their weird beliefs – so they have hijacked education and succeeded in perpetuating the idea that their beliefs are above rational examination.
Johann Hari is one of those who is leading the way in the public examination of this absurd immunity and the beliefs that it shields. Long may they continue to do so.
December 12th, 2010 at 22:02
For me this quote is at the heart of the new atheism. If it wasn’t for the special protection given to religious ideas over all the other competing philosophies, there would be no need for a vocal atheist movement. We exist because religion wants privilage, not just because religion exists.
December 12th, 2010 at 22:42
Respect their weird beliefs ? Allow them to go on poisoning young minds? You dignify the rubbish with the words ” other competing philosophies” AMC
I am sure you intend be fair and balanced but for me the time has come to give their crap no oxygen.
December 12th, 2010 at 23:16
The point of competition is that not all contenders are equal. Someone will win on merit if there isn’t an institutional handicap in place. Religion benefits from such a handicap system, in free competition it wouldn ot survive.
December 16th, 2010 at 22:47
The idea of eternal suffering when I don’t follow your rules is a threat, blackmail, extortion and last but not least sectarian.