Are most people interested in DISCUSSING religion or in CONVINCING others without hearing them?

Question

In case you want to know, this is what makes me wonder:

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AtnaprYFeQ1Sz2UStbB_iE7sy6IX?qid=20060719222156AA71N4U

And I'm asking because If you're not interested, perhaps we should all just form ghettos where each religious group (including those without a religion) could stay away from the rest of humanity.

Or else, we can really start to discuss it seriously and with all due respect for one another...

Yes, I am bothered, My Avatar, because I cannot stand stupidity on either side of the question. Religions are too big an influence (for good or for bad) in everybody's lives to be ignored or treated so trivially.

Answer 1

Given the previous answers on this topic, I'd say that MOST are interested in convincing others without hearing them; however, there are those few participating in this forum who are more interested in discussing religion freely. Keep asking your thoughtful and thought provoking questions and then filter out the noise--you'll discover that there quite a few who actually want a meaningful dialogue. All the best to you.

Answer 2

Religion is, no more no less, exactly what you think it is, and what anyone else thinks doesn't matter.

The only fruitful discussions that can take place about religion are when two people share the same basic beliefs, or when one person is searching for a path. Otherwise, there is never any reason to discuss it at all.

The BIG problem arises when two people are content with their beliefs. What's the point of either of them restating them?

Certain religions get a lot of backlash because their belief, which they're perfectly entitled to have, is that their path is the 'one true path.' By the very nature of that 'truth,' Any person who believes that is guilty of disrespecting the belief of everyone who doesn't share the same belief. This "certainty" that their religion alone is the 'true path' by it's very nature disrespects the entire idea of faith to begin with.

An example of this can be seen in the answer that dumpfinds posted in the link you provided. (With my apologies to her, but it's a perfect example of my point.) She says she respects the choice of the person to be a non-believer, but in the same sentence she finds it a "sad choice." You don't say that to someone whose belief you respect, you say that to someone you're trying to convince has the wrong belief. Now I know she may respond by saying, I'm just expressing my opinion, but in reality she is expressing her judgment. And judge not, that ye not be judged (Matthew 7:1)

The point is, if you believe you're on the 'one true' path, that's wonderful, enjoy it, live it, and if someone comes to you for advice by all means tell them all about it -- but don't bother to tell ME all about it, because guess what, I believe I'M on the right path too.

Answer 3

More are interested in convincing others without hearing them. I believe the reason for this is that many are insecure in their religious beliefs. If they were secure in their own beliefs I would think they would be comfortable in being open minded and willing to discuss their religion and learn of other religions. Many of the worlds problems result from the fact that religious persons not only don't want to discuss other religions, but believe theirs is the "only" religion and that they have a duty to convert others to their religion. Many lose site of the fact that the religious beliefs they have are dictated by where they were born, their parents and culture into which they were born.

Answer 4

I like this question. It is a hard one to get the mind around. I wonder myself why so many people come to a spirituality forum when they are not seriously interested in spirituality.

I think the whole point of spirituality is love and relationship. Convincing can lead to arguing and debating, which I think is a bad thing. It is good to share what you think, feel, and believe. Each person is responsible for deciding that for themselves. I'm interested in what others believe. Some people just want to be right or to find someone to hate or put down so they can feel better about themselves.

Answer 5

eduarodi,
Lighten up dude!

You know that on these boards there are all kinds. Don't sweat it.

It might look a little funny that you are hanging around this part of the board. You've got to expect it!

At least we aren't like the Islamic militants that want to kill if you don't convert.

But my posts are typically written in respect to the question asked.

I can tell you don't want to hear about Christianity in the sense that I would try to convert you. I understand that. But don't be surprised if it starts to soiund like I am on certain questions, especially when it comes to the Resurrection.

Looking forward to the questions.

Answer 6

All religion is a phase. . .as much as I hate to say it, we have to let them grow into, through, and out of it. . .and they will, eventually.

Reasonable people have to be patient and not try to change anyone else either, because I think we'll find trying to change a zealot's behaviour alot like telling our daughter NOT to go out with that boy. They'll just feel more of a purpose and a sense of romanticism of being "up against the wall".

Christian soldiers will charge, and our best defense is not to strke back, but to just step out of the way, when possible, and like their deceased leader says, "turn the other cheek", and be brave.

Answer 7

i can't speak for "most" people...but I can speak for myself.

I'm interested in discussing religion; However, I'm also interested in sharing my 'experience'. (I am a former Atheist, turned Agnostic, turned "Christian")

***And if SATAN himself wanted to wear a sign which stated: "Leave me alone. I don't want your religion"...I'd still 'attempt' to get through to him.

Leaving people in their ignorance, is like leaving a child to make it's own major decisions over it's wellbeing...

- Will I go to school? (they'd probably decide NO)
- Will I bother to bathe? (they'd probably say NO)
- Will I bother to eat foods that are nourishing, or live off junk food?(they'd probably pick the later...)
- Will I do what I want, when I want, and how I want? (they'd probably decide yes...)

The same logic can apply to people who haven't experienced God in their life. They don't know any better --- so obviously, they're going to make uneducated decisions. It's up to the rest of us (who know better) to try and educate people (and ultimately witness to them)

so yeah, I'm interested in trying to convert people too.

Answer 8

Both! I want to discuss religion, and learn about what people believe. but at the same time I want to share what I believe.

Answer 9

therea re plenty of forums on the web meant for discussing or convincing others. i see this as just answering quick questions.

Answer 10

To much Browbeating going on these days