2007-03-16 15:32:39 · 20 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Define enforce.
Most people with love and discipline try to show their kids the best path to go. This kind of enforcing is something I think no one has a problem with.
Then there are those that abuse/disown/punish severely when their child decides to be of a different belief. This is more difficult to define as right or wrong because in the parent's eyes who have tried to bring their child up as best they know how is naturally horrified when their child chooses a different path. If it becomes abuse or total rejection, then I think it is wrong.
2007-03-16 15:38:43 · answer #1 · answered by Studier Alpha 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, if you wait until they're TEENAGERS to do it...lol.
Personally, I base my life on a certain IDEA that I believe in. Consequently, I brought my children into the world to be an extension of myself and that Idea; so it is not wrong for me to train them in the way that will perpetuate the Idea that I believe will bring true meaning to their lives.
If I don't accept responsibility for them, somebody else will. What an indictment that would be against me as a parent.
The greater tragedy is bringing children into the world and being irresponsible when it comes to their development...letting them do whatever they want. That will produce nothing but disfunction in the home, and in the society, eventually.
RM
2007-03-16 22:44:37 · answer #2 · answered by A.L.M. 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
well it certainly wasn't wrong for all the Jews in the desert to enforce their kids to obey Gods law. People today have become soft to religion. Kids HAVE to go to school. Kids HAVE to have a law enforced curfu. Kids HAVE to be in a car seat. All these things keep our kids safe and help them, and that is why they are laws. But when it comes to our kids eternal soul, softy parents ignorantly forget the bible warning to Suffer the children to come to Jesus and forbid them NOT. When children are adults they can decide if religion is right for them, but while under YOUR roof, YOUR children will know YOUR GOD! Remember, "as for me and my family WE will serve the lord!
2007-03-16 22:41:32 · answer #3 · answered by J D 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Personally, I'd teach them about various religious paths and let them take their pick. I'm not a fan of proselytization, and I especially dislike doing it to children. Everyone has a different path that's right for them. Giving people (especially children) only one possible viewpoint goes against the teachings of MY religion. ^_^
2007-03-16 22:59:11 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why does this question keep coming up? What is this new thinking that parents don't have the right to instruct their own kids on their faith? That is what family is all about, teaching the next generation about all kinds of things, faith is just one of many. This idea of letting kids go their own way until they are old enough to decide for themselves is irresponsible.
2007-03-16 23:46:08 · answer #5 · answered by angel 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think you are going for force. Yes, it is. We teach my kids about science, philosophy, respect and tolerance. We encourage our friends and relatives talk about their beliefs with two rules: "no right answer" and "no damnation, no Hell and no sin" Other than that, we want them to hear what others feel and believe. When they get older (they are 4 and almost 2), we will talk with them about why people believe different things and why some people think they are right and others are wrong. We will introduce the concept of sin, Hell and damnation in a neutral way and after they understand it (but do not fear it) we will allow our Christian friends to talk with the freely. Respect for ourselves, our world, and our fellow inhabitants is the basis for morality, not religion.
2007-03-16 22:39:36 · answer #6 · answered by Huggles-the-wise 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes, I think it is.
Children as especially vunrable to indoctrination. Religion should not be forced down their throat as an absolute.
It is ok to teach a child about religion and bring them to church, ect. However, I do not agree with forcing a belief and a lifestyle on a child just because it is your own. They should be exposed to many things to become well rounded, and with age and wisdom they will find their own path, be it your religion or not.
2007-03-16 22:53:16 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Parents have the right (sad day when they don't) to teach their children as they believe. Example: Atheists enforce to their children that there is no God.
2007-03-16 22:38:32 · answer #8 · answered by Red neck 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
You should teach your children all you know about your religion and hopefully when they reach an age where they can decide for themselves what religion to take part in, you will be happy with the decision.
2007-03-16 22:36:28 · answer #9 · answered by JustMe 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
TO *force* it yes but to bring them up with a certin religon no......a lot of people dont even know if they believe in god intill thier much older....but for little kids it should stay simple so not to scare them.......if your kids are teens definatly dont force it on them because (this is coming from expeirence) it will only make them reject it, they have to come to their own terms about what they believe
2007-03-16 22:41:59 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋