General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Kick if you agree with this assessment about the influence of religion on people. [View all]N_E_1 for Tennis
(13,000 posts)I have taken exception to that quote many times.
Beliefs are are very hard thing to describe to others.
Yes to an atheist, religion, dogma, god, gods, seem to be in the area of " unthoughtful".
But really is that true? I had extensive religious training. When I "believed" I thought out my belief.
I pondered.
In my case it led to a non-belief in any god. That is not true in all cases, with some it leads to a stronger faith. Who are we religious or non-religious to discount anyone's belief?
Critical thinking encompasses all thinking, taking all into account and coming up with a reasonable theory.
I have friends that are Jehovah's Witness, many of my best discussions of life, politics, beliefs were had during talks with them. They knew my stance, I theirs. No trying to persuade one to the other side, just pure discussion.
Understanding each other, without predijuce, without dissent, is a key in understanding us all.
Religion, IMHO, is based on a fear of death.