Reply To: Idiot of the Year

[Siderite]

Am I? I completely accept that not everything can be pigeon holed.

However, I would argue the opposite. I accept there are generalisations above. Some things are more irrational or rational than others, not everyone would put comfort as the reason for their faith. However, my comments are aimed at those who don’t seem to understand why someone like JI may choose a religious path, even if it seems irrational, and a lot of it does appear to be ridicule because of a failing to understand why someone might still believe.

I have let it known that I am an atheist. I have argued with bpg about his own rigid fundamentalism several times before and I have with JI on things like abortion. I stand by my opposition to what I see as controlling aspects of religion which affect others. However, I don’t think some of the comments above are about that. They seem to be dismissive and ignorant of why some people might believe. Despite disagreements on faith I feel like we can understand why someone believes, based on a human desire to feel connected with others, wanting something more and connection. Faith gives that. Just because it’s not for me, or others, it doesn’t mean some can’t get a lot out of it.

I would say my position is not religious at all. I am sceptical of all ideology. Religions like Christianity and Islam. Political ideologies like communism or fascism. More moderate positions too. It’s these things which cloud people’s minds and cause them to act in manners we’d see as inappropriate, through a belief it’s for the greater good. However, I realise that we need to have some guiding principles in how we want society to be, politically, so having a political ideology you generally subscribe to is hard to avoid. Similar applies for others when it comes to religion. It’s not a necessity for a moral life, you can find purpose without it, but it is one avenue for some to find purpose. So long as they don’t infringe upon others I am fine with it.

My objections to the above is that calling JI’s beliefs fairy stories and loony is antagonistic and ignorant of why people like JI believe. Yes, In theory I agree with such statements, because I don’t believe the Biblical story to be an accurate representation of the world, but it often hides a lack of empathy for or understanding as to why some believe. Maybe this is a little politically correct of me, but I think it would be better for a unity with as many people as possible, so long as they’re decent in spirit (not meant religiously here). If I was to set off against everyone who believed in things I find disagreeable I’d have few friends, colleagues or allies.

I agree that some people are beyond comradeship and hold too many objectionable views or personality traits to be close to in any way, and sometimes any unification of humanity is sometimes hindered by others’ actions (as I have discussed with JI earlier in this very thread). Life is full of paradoxes and we do have limits. However, I think such limits should be minimised.

I am sorry if this is preachy, but one paradox in this is that I accept no-one is perfect, let alone me. I fail to be an ideal match for my principles, as outlined above, just like anyone.