Moniker wrote:It's a belief system. Why is it taken so personally? When Wade was equating discussing religion to a personal smear against a person it really surprised me and at the same time was rather illuminating. It's not just something that some subscribe to -- it is them.
I don't know that it always is taken personally--I know I don't. It depends much on how and why the belief system is being discussed.
But, to understand why certain discussion may be taken personally, it to may help to recognize that our faith is more than just a belief system. To many of us, it is a way of life and, in part, a way of defining who and what we are (individually and collectively).
I don't know if that's a healthy mentality. I can see that discussing various religions as a positive step to understanding differences and similarities and to better understand human nature to subscribe to some faith system. When all discussions are taken as a personal affront I think it's time to step back and perhaps evaluate why you feel that way?
Perhaps it may be best to first understand that it is inaccurate to assume that "all discussions are taken as a personal affront". They aren't.
Second, it may help to discipher why some discussions are taken personally, and why some aren't.
Once that is done, then perhaps one may be in a better position to determine whether it is healthy or not, and whether there is a need to step back or not.
I would be more than happy to explore the second step and beyond with you.
I think zealots, no matter which stripe, are usually rabid and difficult to discuss anything with in a sensible manner. Yet, I do see some sensible posters on MAD -- just the overly fanatic ones seem to stand out more. Of course the same is seen here.
Since you envoked my name earlier, I am wondering if you incude me among the "zealots" who are "usually rabid and difficult to discuss anything with in a sensible manner."
Thanks, -Wade Englund-