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[LostOne4Ever]

10. Respecting the Religion versus the Belief

I think there is a difference between disrespecting a religion and respecting that someone sincerely holds beliefs in said religion. One can hold nothing but disdain for a religion while respecting someone else's belief in that religion. Further, I think one can criticize their religion without being disrespectful to them or the fact that they believe in that religion. But this is a fine line that I sometimes lose sight of.

Back in the past we were forced to say we believed in the various religions on penalty of death. They did this because they did not respect our dis-beliefs and saw us as less than human.

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1re·spect noun \ri-ˈspekt\

Definition of RESPECT

1
: a relation or reference to a particular thing or situation <remarks having respect to an earlier plan>
2
: an act of giving particular attention : consideration
3
a : high or special regard : esteem
b : the quality or state of being esteemed
c plural : expressions of high or special regard or deference <paid our respects>
4
: particular, detail <a good plan in some respects>
— in respect of
chiefly British : with respect to : concerning
— in respect to
: with respect to : concerning
— with respect to
: with reference to : in relation to

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1
archaic : worth, value
2
archaic : opinion, judgment
3
: the regard in which one is held; especially : high regard <the esteem we all feel for her>
See esteem defined for English-language learners »
See esteem defined for kids »

As a secular humanist I believe deeply in the principle of reciprocity. I want people to give consideration to my disbelief and to give my opinions esteem. Therefore, I give the same to their beliefs. That said, I don't expect my beliefs to be given respect, but I still give respect myself. Why? Because being dis-respectful of others is the start of dehumanizing them, and in the words of Niezsche:


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Again, I think they were able to kill us because they saw us as less than human for not believing in their myths. So, I show respect because I want to acknowledge that they are human; and more than that, to make sure I do not become like those I so vehemently oppose.

Also, I try to be respectful because it is my experience that when people feel disrespected or insulted they cling to their beliefs even more, and are less likely to listen to reason. Beyond that, I feel that people who feel insulted are more likely to become antagonistic not only to me, but atheism in general.

I see religion as being like an addictions to some people, and as such its best to try and ween them off slowly and supportively. You can attract more bees with honey rather than vinegar if you will.

The religions themselves, especially those that preach hatred and bigotry, are not deserving of our respect, but their followers are human beings who are just trying to do what they think is best, and I feel that is something to respect.I don't think this is propping up the last line of cover for religion; rather, I see it as the best way fight the close minded bigotry of dogma and superstition.

Being honest with yourself and open-minded are vital parts of being a free thinker; but so is being respectful. Because you are not being open minded if you don't at least given others your consideration and esteem...the very definition of respect.