Re: [chchskeptics] draw muhammad day
| From: | Benjamin Wiseman |
| Sent on: | Friday, May 14, 2010 11:03 PM |
Issac,
"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."
I can't disagree more. Leaving a religion to it's adherents for critique is a terrible idea. It's be like leaving all criticism of say, the national party to more moderate members. All you end up with is a quick transition into a dark aged mentality. Every sector of society should be open to criticism and ridicule from all people. If the religion, politician, whatever, can't defend itself adequately then so be it. Let the creationists be a laughing stock with the Hovind theory, let Catholics take heat for the spread of HIV in Africa, let Islam be scrutinized for the actions of it's adherents that stay true to the qu'ran.
Christianity, Judaism, and Islam cause quantifiable suffering world wide and anyone who want's to be a part of any religion should squirm uncomfortably in light of the evil deeds of their social group, they shouldn't be excused because the truth is awkward for them. If your holy book contains instructions for evil* and you support it, then be prepared to answer to criticism for it - that goes for any religion.
Cheers,
Ben
*by "evil" I mean a quantifiable increase in suffering.
