Freedom

Submitted by Aral Balkan (United Kingdom), Jun 12, 2004 at 19:46

It is very interesting to me when religious people, regardless of religion, wrap themselves in the flag of freedom. It is interesting because, whether it be the Jewish, Christian or Muslim faiths or the plethora of others, there is very little in any religion that has to do with freedom. Quite the contrary, religions have always been about restricting freedom. These restrictions are felt most strongly by those in society who are least able to defend themselves: Women and children.

Take, for example, George W. Bush: A "born again" Christian who is currently on a "crusade" to liberate the poor Iraqi people thanks to the goodness of his pious heart. God bless him.

Regarding "militant Muslims": Yes, please blame them for the pain and suffering they cause and please talk about it. You should be free to talk about anything, anywhere. But please don't apologize for the Muslim religion. It is not "militant Muslims" who are the problem, it is Islam. It is religion. So talk about what an oppressive religion Islam is and talk about what oppressive institutions religions are in general. Talk about the human tragedies that religions have caused throughout the ages and continue to cause today.

Throughout history religion has been used to justify the pain and suffering of millions upon millions. I hope that one day in the near future we will realize that we should embrace our reason and leave religion in the bloody pages of our primitive past.

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