Is the limit of your philosophy to belittle the philosophies of others?

Question

Hi!

I've noticed that a lot of Christians and Atheists on YA seem to snipe at each other, which brings a bitterness our dialogue could do without. On closer annalysis, this seems prelevant among Americans. My experience is that when people talk about their passion to build together regardless of faith, cultural & other outlook factors great things can be achieved that benefit the human race. Why are some people so threatened by those who see things another way that they belittle their own school of thought? As a Christian, I would say that someone who was judgemental was not being Christian and wonder why they would claim to follow the man who advised his followers not to judge.

If something as simple as putting on a suit or claiming to follow a recognised path made a person "good", life would be too easy. What is this sniping thing about? Is it the way Christianity, for example, is interpreted & therefore expereienced by non-Christians in a given culture?

Good wishes.

Answer 1

If someone told you that their philosophy was rape, murder, caravan robbing and terrorism then something is seriously wrong with YOU if you think we should respect that.

I speak out about Islam frequently because it is causing so many problems in the world today... and those problems are merely an offshoot of Muhammad and the fact that he did all of those things I named above.

Answer 2

You wrote: "My experience is that when people talk about their passion to build together regardless of faith, cultural & other outlook factors great things can be achieved that benefit the human race."

While there are elements of truth here, isn't this also the same subtle deception that led to the confusion and fall of Babel when the people came together to build the Tower of Babel instead of spreading out across the earth as God commanded? They said, in essence, "We can accomplish much more together than being separate...." ...and in doing so they forgot God. Is unity more important that faithfully holding to truth?

Answer 3

Very interesting and personally topical question! I am a non believer, but have a Buddhist teacher. I am very interested in other's views, other religions/spiritualism as I consider it important to learn about them.

I thought my 15 year old son's views were even more inclusive of other faiths than mine, until a long conversation today in which he said 'People who have very strong religious views try to restrict the views and lifestyles of others'

Shocked I challenged him on this 'new learning' which on investigation came from strongly held anti-discriminatory beliefs. He talked about anti-abortion laws, gay rights, racial hatred and religious war etc. His views were well informed but in my own opinion, his conclusion completely incomprehensible. His objection is that of wholesale interference with other's rights, choices and lifestyles by those who hold strongly religious beliefs for example anti abortion.

From a basis of good intention and sound anti discriminatory beliefs how can this interpretation be reached?

Answer 4

Even though I am a Christian, I also respect others belief system. I try not to belittle anyone else's philosophy but I am human and have a tendancy to screw up royally!! Well, hope all will have a good day

Answer 5

I respect a persons right to practice their own belief system as long as they are not hurting anyone. I never snipe or cut anyone down for that. But i might disagree with them, there is a difference.

Answer 6

I merely try to give as good as I get: religion keeps on trying to mess with my life, and the lives of those around me.

Just stop the interference in laws, politics, medicine, science, reproduction, education, sexuality and war, and I'll say no more about it.

CD

Answer 7

11 We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.