Re: [chchskeptics] draw muhammad day
| From: | Isaac Freeman |
| Sent on: | Friday, May 14, 2010 8:00 PM |
On 14/05/2010, at 4:59 PM, Benjamin Wiseman wrote:
While I do hear what you're saying, Issac and Paul, and yes, we must promote a clear distinction between religious moderates and zealots I still fall in favor of drawing Muhammad.
One of the things I've taken from this discussion is that I'll try in future to avoid the word "extremist", as it implies a continuum in which the extreme position is the most rigorous or accurate. Zealot is a better word.
It is a sorry fact that we live in a world where religion still, for the most part, goes unchecked with an undeserved sacredness.
I'd probably use the word "sacredness" differently, but I take it you mean "too sacred to question", in which case I agree. I don't think religious beliefs deserve special protection from questioning. That's where I'd draw the line between religion and superstition.
That is why I feel that any opportunity to demonstrate that it is possible, moreover acceptable, to not abide by token scriptural commandments should be taken.
I think it's good to approach religion with a skeptical frame of mind, but I think the effect of the message depends on who's giving it and how. It's going to come across best when it comes from someone who's obviously a committed and experienced Muslim, and worst when it comes from someone who appears to be actively opposed to Islam in general. There needs to be a level of trust and respect to get across that kind of message.
Isaac Freeman
Web Design & Development
[address removed] ++64 21 1511209 AIM: isaacfreem
