Religious people so often seen as simple-minded

“What never ceases to amaze me is that very intelligent people suck religion up in later life without any indoctrination.

Honestly, can anyone really explain to me what tips rational, sensible and (in a lot of cases) analytical people into believing in some unseen, silent, allegedly "caring" deity that (if you believe in said deity) allows so many atrocities and abuses to be carried out in its name?

I served in Bosnia where I witnessed first hand some of those atrocities and the crazy thing about all of it was that all it served to do was create more determination to believe and even further divisions between people who (save for their varied beliefs) were identical in every aspect.

It may seem a little simplistic but as far as I can see, the two most divisive things on this earth are the beliefs held by Human Beings, and the colourful rags they then want to unfurl in support of it.

Fair enough, have faith in something and be Patriotic, but don't be a Jingoistic zealot!”

“I had my own children Baptised into my faith, all went on to participate in their First Holy Communion at various ages, they were given the choice to do so and also the choice whether to attend mass. Some did and some didn't, I, as their parent, gave them that choice, not the school, not the priest, they would have insisted they attend church/confession etc. Although I chose to have them Baptised I didn't force them to attend church as soon as they were old to make their own choice.”

“Fair enough. Long may the indoctrination continue.”

“'What do you think gives you the right to.................'

Because they are our children, not yours and not the State's. And a parent is sovereign, within the law, over his child until that child comes of age. You can choose to bring your chiild up to believe in nothing in particular or in a specific religion, as you will.

Is that factual enough for you, Why?”

“"Religion is about individual conscience" says Mr Kavina. I say religion is about individual choice.

For example, why should the child of a religious couple almost automatically be raised in the same faith? Why can't he/she be allowed to grow, investigate different religions and faiths if they choose to and eventually pick the one (or none at all) they believe is the one for them?

I throw out an open question to all parents who have brought up their children in their own faith. What do you think gives you the right to, for want of a better phrase, brainwash your offspring into accepting your beliefs? I'll add one rider to that question - please do not start spouting quotations from any story book and just stick to the facts.”