Sunday 25 April 2010

I May Be A New Atheist But...

....I've got no problem with people living their lives as they see fit. I'm anti-religious in terms of religion having any part in Government or control over our legislation. I dislike the idea that someone's unproven beliefs can influence Government policy. Policy should be based on proper research and scientific findings.

But I am never more repelled than when people attack others because of their personal choices. For instance... the idea of banning certain styles of Islamic dress, such as the burqa, is one born from sheer hate.

There are those who argue for such a ban on feminist terms, but their concept of feminism is somewhat silly... denying a woman the right to wear something she wants to IS illiberal. Personally I do not understand why any sane person would walk around covered in a sheet but that is my personal prejudice and not one I would wish to impose on anyone, just as I would expect them not to expect me to pretend to be straight in public. We all have our unique features and must respect them.

I find religious people forcing their beliefs on others to be quite disturbing. But I also find people imposing their beliefs on religious people to be just as disturbing. I'm a liberal, and proud to be one. That means giving freedom to others to be whoever they wish to be... not to conform to others petty bigotry's.

If you feel benevolent and particularly generous, this writer always appreciates things bought for him from his wishlist

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

"Personally I do not understand why any sane person would walk around covered in a sheet but that is my personal prejudice and not one I would wish to impose on anyone"

However there is a case that those wishing to cover their faces are not taking account of the importance of facial expression in communication.

Personally I feel it can be intimidating to be unable to gauge what a person may be feeling through being unable to see their facial expression.

The other issue is the health issue of vitamin D deficiency. The manufacture of vitamin D - essential to health - by the human body requires bare skin and some exposure to direct sunlight.

I feel people would be justifiably angry should someone who chose to cover their face with a veil and who subsequently suffers from vitamin D definciency then expect NHS treatment for the condition

Jae Kay said...

"However there is a case that those wishing to cover their faces are not taking account of the importance of facial expression in communication."

Neither do people who use the phone to carry out business when they could reasonably travel to see the person they are talking to.

"I feel people would be justifiably angry should someone who chose to cover their face with a veil and who subsequently suffers from vitamin D definciency then expect NHS treatment for the condition"

What about smokers, drinkers, alcoholics, sports enthusiasts, people who burn themselves whilst making tea etc. etc. Surely these people also put themselves at risk of going to hospital due to their choice of actions?? Should we refuse treatment to anyone who might have done something to cause their condition?

I respect your opinions but these arguments are very weak.