discuss Should Religious Beliefs Be Shielded from Criticism?

[Yama]

Most religions reject the idea of reinterpretation, let alone criticism of the theologies. However, some argue that criticizing religion is necessary for free thought. Religiously motivated individuals say that it is disrespectful or even dangerous to do criticism and reinterpretation. What do you think, should religious beliefs be treated like any other ideology open to critique? Where do we draw the line between free speech and hate speech when it comes to religion?

 

[Unvarnished]

I do not think it's possible to not criticise religion especially in our present age and time where you’ll always have something to talk about on religious activities. So, just like other beliefs are criticized, religious belief would also be criticized to the same extent.

 

[Ashake]

My point of view is that the review of faith-based beliefs needs to be done with respect. Using hate speech as well as discriminatory expressions must remain absent from such discussions.

 

[Harsh World]

I don't like the idea of "hate speech" to begin with as that means someone else can define what it is and it can be ever-evolving until there's "no speech that is unliked" (or in otherwords, freedom of speech is entirely gone when we go down that road).

As far as criticism of beliefs goes, it should be up to the country, or platform, where the speech is taking place to decide. Even though I believe free speech is an inalienable human right, not all places see it the same. In the United States, it would be open to criticize however you like, whatever the religion is. And on this forum, religion is open to criticism if done respectfully.

Criticism of religion would be just that: Criticism. Where I draw the line between criticism and free speech is if the speech has a call to violence.

While I disagree with this statement, there is no specific call to action, rather it's opinionated:

X religion is fake and anyone believing in it should be punched.

Over this more direct call to action:

X religion is fake and if you know anyone believing in it, punch them.

 

[Apsara]

I believe in the importance of freedom of expression, which includes the right to challenge or question religious ideas. However, criticism should be constructive and mindful of the diverse meanings these beliefs hold for individuals.

 

[Fidelia1]

If we are to practice true religious tolerance, we shouldn't allow people to criticize the religion of others and it's practices. That is a mark of respect for that religion and it's adherents. You incite followers of a religion when you subject their beliefs to criticism.

 

[Maina]

I think religious beliefs, like any deeply held ideas, deserve respect, but they shouldn’t be completely shielded from criticism. Healthy questioning and open dialogue can help people grow and understand different perspectives.

 

[lens]

I totally disagree that religious belief should be shielded from criticism. In a democratic setting, there should be freedom of expression and there should be room for critical thinking too. Aside from that, some criticism can be constructive and respectful. So, we should allow it in religious settings.

 

[Oshawott]

Religion and criticism cannot go hand in hand because we can criticise religion only on the touchstone of science and once you do that, religions becomes non-existent.

However, one thing is true - when members of the same religion criticise an opposing beliefs, then religion doesn't reform much, but simply creates a new form of religion and goes ahead with it.

Just my two cents.

 

[Jason]

I have a Christian blog and forum. Most of my posts are from the POV of someone who is very ordinary, and frankly, a loser. That's how I relate to people. I ask real questions on there and there isn't some fear of being disrespectful or weird like there might be at some church.