Religion
In reply to the discussion: This message was self-deleted by its author [View all]guillaumeb
(42,649 posts)religion, schools, the military, prison, are all social constructs. All have their own traditions, rules, behaviors.
I would argue that the primary function of religion is to establish how to live a good life. What constitutes good behavior varies from religion to religion. Reinforcing group norms is accomplished by many means. Bullying is a negative reinforcement. And no one is denying that it happens. But it also happens in every other social institution.
But if anyone makes the point that religion is the biggest bully, or religion is the biggest source of intolerance, is an assertion without evidence.
So because bullying and intolerance arise in all social institutions, every single one, is the only solution to encourage tolerance?
In my view, yes.