I'm sure there's more than two, but these are the biggest.
Firstly, from a morals point, religions promise eternal life. Always only through that one brand - everyone else is a heretic and will go to hell - and money is always involved. The sale of eternal life is fraud because it doesn't exist. How do I know it doesn't exist? There is no evidence for what is essentially a ludicrous proposal and no logic.
Secondly - collateral damage. This can take many forms and is regularly evidenced.
A small percentage of the population suffers significant mental health issues. If you teach a vulnerable person with tendencies towards violence that a god wants them to kill unbelievers then that is likely to happen. Most religious texts create an enemy of the non-believers and while the literal interpretation is usually to kill them, it's always argued by some that there is some deeper and non-violent interpretation. The problem with that is that crazy violent people will see the crazy and violent version. Jainism is an exception.
Another group are those who attain a 'Doctorate in Theology' or similar. That's as wasted a life as a 'Masters Degree in Pokemon'.
A more serious group is those who take a particular instruction to heart and to the detriment of their followers. An example is the Jehovah's Witnesses who cite two passages in the bible where eating blood is forbidden. The result is that countless devotees have died unnecessarily. Transfusions save lives.
Another group is those who think it might be better to end this life for the better one to come. this could be through suicidal depression or even pining for a lost life partner.
Another group is those who agree to fight and die for their king (who rules by divine right) knowing if it all turns pear shaped, they will be reunited with their loved ones some time down the track. Atheists generally don't fall for that one.
And religions just want the thinkers to butt out and keep quiet while they rake in the cash.
I see nothing moral in the sale of eternal life, creating imaginary enemies, risking extreme violence or in promising a paradise to a vulnerable person who may have found more professional help in another area (medicine).
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment