Would mandatory h.s. class on history of the world's religions increase the ranks of atheists in America?

Answer 1

Pretty much since going to church and reading the bible is what made me an atheist.

Answer 2

Well, I apologise for largely cutting and pasting my earlier answer to another Q but in England, up to the age of 14, children (including my daughter) learn about the major religions and their festivals. About a term is committed to each faith.

Despite not being a follower of any of the belief systems covered I think it's a good idea. After all, religions have shaped much of our world, for all the faults people may perceive in them. And an understanding of what is important to others can surely only be a good thing?

We still have Christians (of all denominations), Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Bahá'í, Buddhists and so on. Oh yes. And atheists. Seems to me like it works fairly well. But it seems to be a big issue in the States. Though I'm not quite sure why.
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Answer 3

Not really.

I probably know 90% of the Catholic Church's history, including MANY acts by the Church where one would think "what is WRONG with these people?"

However, I do not follow the people in the Church, but instead by It's teachings.

Sure, if those people follow the teachings, I agree with them (like Pope John Paul II, and the current pope); but if the Pope suddenly called for a second Inquisition, I wouldn't be too keen on it.

Answer 4

Probably not, but it sure would waste precious teaching/learning time, which could be better served teaching kids use full stuff.

Education is the biggest threat to religious dogma. Statistics have shown the more educated a person is the less likely that person will be dumb enough to buy into the religious lies.

Answer 5

It might, as they would see all the false religions and then run from anything, but for the ones seeking truth, they would find truth in the teachings of Jesus Chrsit. But, knowing the school systems, all religions would be taught except the Christian God. all others are allowed to speak, but Christians are to be silent. WIill never happen tho To God be the glory Doesnt matter what anyone says or does, God is victorious and will save many ppl. The ones that are lost have chosen it , by rejecting Jesus. so no matter what you do, God says that all that will love Him and obey Him will be vicrious Chrsitians. so we dont sweat stuff like this, we just wait for Jesus and know where we are going, and hoping so many more will join us before its too late.

Answer 6

I bet so!
I was raised Catholic, but was allowed to read whatever I wanted and was interested in other religons.
What do you know, now I don't have one! LOL

Answer 7

depends on if they focused on the differences or the similarities

if you look at the differences it seems as if they all contradict each other.

if you look at the similaritites it seems that they went " off track " somewhere

Answer 8

If the teacher wasn't biased then of course.

Answer 9

No, Christians don't fear knowledge of any kind. What would make someone think that?

Answer 10

If it was impartially taught, probably.