Should we Stop Discussing whether Islam is Peaceful ?

[BlueMTexpat]

63. I am a bit confused by your answer.

I don't believe that I was arguing for freedom "for straight men of the dominant faith group" as opposed to all others.

Why on earth would I, as a woman, who has come by her agnosticism - not atheism - legitimately, that is, after studying, in some cases even living, different religions, do that? My extended family also comprises individuals who espouse literally every known faith, as well as those who do not believe.

I personally believe that there is something more to life than what we are able to see. What that is I simply do not know. But I have experienced enough in my 70+ years to make me comfortable with this belief.

Any religion that tries to define that "something" and put it in terms for people to understand (what is amazing is that so many of the "myths" are similar in many ways) can be helpful to those who need such definition and community. I respect those who actually practice the tenets of their beliefs in ways that do not harm anyone and laud those, such as the truly wonderful Jimmy Carter, who use their beliefs to espouse causes that benefit others.

Where I find fault is when those who accept those religious definitions decide that those definitions, beliefs and actions must apply to all others without exception, and especially when they use those beliefs to cause harm or to justify causing harm to others. I also find fault when one set of beliefs - rather than the individuals who misuse them - is considered fair game for bigotry.

What is so complicated about that?

Are you sure that you meant to respond to me the way that you did?