Would you read a book that disagrees with your personal philosophies, or would you seek to destroy it?

Question

I don't like the Bible, but I've read it three time, specifically because it disagrees with what I would assume to be truthful. Should I be seeking to limit your use of it, since I don't agree with it?

Answer 1

You apparently have a reason beyond polling for this question.
- Of course, anyone with a modicum of active intelligence would disagree with the wanton destruction of literature for ANY reason. - And anyone with a glimmer of understanding of the concept of respect would not attempt to control in any way the choices of another adult, be it choices in literature, philosophy, etc.
- Now, the real meat, Why are you asking what seems to be a question designed to answer your purpose or support your point?
- What is your purpose or point?

Answer 2

I would read it, to see if, after reading, I still disagree; if I do, what I read could make good ammunition for argument later...I don't believe in the destruction of the printed word - so much so that I have not yet destroyed 'money management for the 90s' that belongs to my husband, even though he's tried to throw it out several times. I can't help thinking that all writing has some value!

If you were to read the Bible as fiction - which it mostly is - and poetry - especially the King James Version, it can be a very worthwhile book. What makes it a problem is the people who believe that every word in it (ESPECIALLY the KJV) is true.

Answer 3

Yes I have read books that disagrees with my personal philosophies mainly out of curiosity and to see others opinions rather than just my own. I would not try turn any one away from their way of thinking or beliefs. What may be good for me may not be good for you. This works both ways. So I don't feel you should try to limit the use of any book you disagree with only because it is against your personal philosophies.

Answer 4

The nature of meaningful debate would suggest that you know your opponent's argument as well, if not better, than your own. It is irresponsible to decide that a book is untrue if you've never read it and even more so to tell others who have read it that they're wrong for believing in it.

Furthermore, there is a misconception that atheists are interested in "talking Christians out of God". Patently untrue in most cases. We just want them to stop trying to talk us into him!

Keep reading the Bible and use it against those who would try to convert you...

Answer 5

I read: "Is Bill Cosby Right (or has the black middle class lost it's mind)" Mr. Dyson is completely right about everything he says in the book, but his assertion is completely wrong and his understanding of where Bill Cosby is coming from is completely wrong. I only read the whole thing because he is a genius writer and immensely entertaining.

If someone were to use Mr. Dyson's book as support for arguments against Bill Cosby, then I would have to tear it to shreds.

Answer 6

I read books that disagree with my philosophy. I believe that those who don't, may feel threatened that to do so might make them doubt their present beliefs.

I think all people who are concerned with religion and spiritually should read works by all of the great philosophers, and read books and articles by Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins and Bertrand Russell, in addition to the Bible.

Answer 7

No

What is it, exactly, you disagree with?

Love your neighbor?
Love your enemy?
Carry the pack 10 miles instead of 5 miles?

Would you have rather Goliath won and then have him molest David?

Should Lot's wife have turned into a pillar of pepper? (Remember, and remind your wife, in case of Nuclear Attack, don't head back towards the blast or YOU might get turned into a pillar of salt).

I won't like the new Astronomy books when they come out. A PLUTON sounds like something you put into salad. And after 60 yeas, getting demoted. The Solar System obvioiusly need a better Union.

Answer 8

I am a conservative and I love Michael Moore movies. They are very entertaining. You have an obligation to challenge your own views. It is important that test yourself to see what you really believe. You should continue reading the bible and any other thing you do not think you agree with and I will continue to watch Michael Moore films and read books by Al Franken. By the way, my conservative views remain un affected by the left wing propaganda I investigate.

Answer 9

I read most things with impartiality although it would probably be lack of interest rather than the fact that any particular philosophy disagreed with my beliefs that would make me avoid reading something. I wouldn't destroy any book.

Answer 10

Yes I would read a book like that and no you shouldn't try and keep people from being exposed to something you disagree with. That is censorship and only people whom are scared that they will be proved wrong try and censor.