16th July 2008
“If people have the attitude that others who don't believe in their religion are fundamentally wrong and will be punished for it in the afterlife, they will reasonably punish non-believers in this life.”
Allison Harris
“If people have the attitude that others who don't believe in their religion are fundamentally wrong and will be punished for it in the afterlife, they will reasonably punish non-believers in this life.”
Allison Harris
July 16th, 2008 at 19:53
I can never understand why it is necessary for people to punish sinners on God’s behalf. Seems kinda presumptive. If I was God I’d really hate that.
If the crime is really heinous one would expect thunderbolts etc. Otherwise why not leave punishment until the final reckoning?
Take apostasy for example. There’s no good reason to kill people for that unless, of course, your primary concern is to enforce social conformity…
July 16th, 2008 at 22:13
I totally agree with Hypatia. “Vengeance is MINE sayeth the LORD!” Religion creates complicated emotions and motivations and in-group/out-group prejudices are a natural result. Anyone that isn’t a member of your particular sect does by definition think your faith is mistaken. They are unworthy! They are apostate! By denying them rights (or limbs, or life) we are doing God’s work.