Re: [chchskeptics] draw muhammad day
| From: | Isaac Freeman |
| Sent on: | Saturday, May 15, 2010 1:57 PM |
On 14/05/2010, at 11:03 PM, Benjamin Wiseman wrote:
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.
That's not my point. I'm not saying you're not allowed to say anything unless you're a member, just about what's most likely to be heard. Other Muslims are in the best position, because they're clearly not anti-Muslim. If you're not yourself a Muslim, you have to establish a basic level of trust to demonstrate that you're speaking in good faith. Bear in mind that we're talking about people who are used to being verbally abused in the street by random strangers. With the best will in the world, they can't just assume that you have their best interests at heart without a little evidence.
I'm definitely not saying that only Muslims can talk to other Muslims. Just that they're in the best position to be heard.
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.
Sure. I'm not talking about fundamental rights, just about what's most likely to be effective. You definitely have the right to ridicule.
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.
Fair enough. To be a bit blunt, I think the situation is this: you can either shout ultimatums at people telling them to stop being evil, or you can talk to them respectfully about your concerns. The former is fun but counter-productive. The latter is hard, but effective.
This doesn't just apply to religion, of course. Even the most reasonable person isn't going to take kindly to being told they're evil. It's why politicians pay more attention to one hand-written letter than they do to a thousand people marching.
Isaac Freeman
Web Design & Development
[address removed] ++64 21 1511209 AIM: isaacfreem
