I would be fine with that if the various religions did not partake in numerous actions which I strongly disagree with (many of which DO affect me).
A few examples:
- Indroctrination of children. Let them be free of religion until at least 14, preferably older. Let them make up their own minds. If you're a Jew and your kid wants to be Catholic (or athiest), then let them.
- Following on from above, I do not believe religion should be taught in schools. If it is, I feel it should be taught with balance illustrating the teachings of ALL religions and not just Christianity (in Australia).
- Arguing with science for sake of protecting a belief system. Creationists... if you have genuine evidence that evolution is a crock and/or genesis is real, please prove it using scientific principles. Until then, keep it in your church.
- Missions... Christianity has had a profound negative effect on many societies in modern Africa. Just look at how homosexuals are treated in Uganda. A religios persons need to convert others or 'spread the word' is one of the things I find most concerning/frustrating/disgusting.
- Tax free business/preying on the weak willed. Just look at Hillsong. Or Scientology... I saw on the ABC this week that your average US scientologist will have needed to donate $400,000 to the church before they can learn it's 'most protected teachings'. Crazyness.
- Posting those annoying letters/comics in my letterbox or putting them under my winscreen. It's just as annoying as when Harvey Norman does it.
There are many more... but it's bedtime.
(I understand there are (some) benefits brought about by organised religion, but I do not feel these benefits are balanced with the enormous costs).
