I hear this quite often, that even if I disagree with a person's beliefs, I should still respect those beliefs and not antagonize the person for having them. My question is this: I believe religion is harmful to society and people as individuals, so what does it serve for me to have pretend respect for beliefs I consider to be dangerous lies?
If tolerance is necessary, should we not also be tolerant of dangerous behaviors other people choose to practice? Since it is their choice to behave in such a way, such we interfere? Why must I respect your religious beliefs, and bend over backwards not to offend, when the choices of drug users and alcoholics are condemned by a great portion of society?
2007-01-18 03:52:57 · 6 answers · asked by manic.fruit 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I hope you realize the difference between antagonizing someone and expressing your opinion. This is where the issue of respect is more important to me. It's how you express it. (and I admit that sometimes I fail in this myself)
That said, I agree that if you find something to be harmful, you should speak your mind.
2007-01-18 04:19:07 · answer #1 · answered by milomax 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am a Christian and I agree with you. I think we need to respect people, not necessarily everyone's beliefs. IF you feel religion is dangerous than do whatever you can to rescue people from it.
I believe that not placing your faith in Christ is dangerous not only in this world but in the world to come. I will continue to do all that I can to help rescue people from this fate. I guess the truth will win out in the end.
2007-01-18 04:00:11 · answer #2 · answered by mark777 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
OK, here's my message to atheists:
I actually don't care a whit if you respect my beliefs or not. I'm not interested in converting you, or even in having you show curiosity about my religion.
I'm perfectly content to leave you alone in that area of your life, and to not impose upon you that area of mine. I am more than willing, I'm happy to work with you on common goals, and to respect that you come to those causes from a different perspective. I won't tell you that your motivations are wrong because they are not the same as mine.
And I don't think less of you for your unbelief.
I'd prefer, though, that when I am speaking with other Pagans about Paganism, you don't butt in on the conversation to tell us that we're delusional.
That's it.
2007-01-18 04:40:14 · answer #3 · answered by Praise Singer 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
People confuse respecting a person's RIGHT to believe something and respecting their beliefs. I don't need others to respect my beliefs, nor do I care if they do. I believe, however that it is wrong not to respect other people's "Right" to believe what ever they want.
2007-01-18 04:24:53 · answer #4 · answered by John r 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
If you want political correctness then it must be across the board or else what motivation would anyone have to remain politically correct. If someone chooses to disrespect a certain group then what motivation does that group have to show respect to anyone else?
2007-01-18 03:59:02 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You totally rock!!
2007-01-18 03:59:42 · answer #6 · answered by mullah robertson 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋