kramerica.inc wrote: ↑Fri Nov 01, 2019 3:45 pm Please, don't judge a person's character, or mental stability/capability or "goodness" by their religious beliefs.
I rarely do...especially here...the whole God speaks to me or has chosen me is something I don't buy.
I agree. What are your thoughts on Islam?
Why do you ask, Kram?
I know a whole lot of American Muslims hailing originally from all over the world. First gen mostly, 2nd and third gen; a few being descendants of slaves, but mostly not.
I've been very impressed, glad to call them "my fellow Americans".
Now, the nutcases who want to force their beliefs on others, willing to kill or otherwise terrorize innocents? That's about power, twisting 'religion' for evil intent. Not actually consistent with how most understand their faith!
We're not allowed to do that in this country.
Horse poop...happens all the time by the ultra religious.
I know. And by the left too.
Yes, some on the left have serious disdain for some of the tendencies of very conservative religious folks who bring their views into the public square. That's more about pushing back on the politics than actually about religious beliefs. Believe what you want, just don't tell me what to believe.
Some folks certainly shake their heads as well at the 'snake handlers' and 'speaking in tongues' sorts of religious beliefs, but as long as you keep those snakes to yourself and don't endanger anyone else...ie children...then whatever.
Basically, the issue is when "religious beliefs" put others at risk or otherwise trample on other's rights. At least here in America, we don't think that's appropriate.
People can worship whatever religion they want, however they want, and not be judged by it.
First part, full agreement. You can worship crows for all I care....nothing says you can't and won't be judged.
Agree with the first part too. Out of curiosity, what are your thoughts on religion as it's tied to immigration?
I'm puzzled by that question. What are you seeing as an overlap between 'religion' and 'immigration', 'tied' or otherwise?
This was a great way for Trump to "add religious diversity" to the White House.
What does that mean?
Diversity- We're regularly told multiple perspectives from people of different backgrounds is a good thing. Does hiring Christian Evangelicals not fit into that line of thinking? If not, why?
You really imagine this was about "diversity" in the White House? They don't have enough Christians?
or evangelicals or maybe you mean fundamentalists?
Now, maybe add a couple of Muslims, perhaps some Hindus...
Trump has embraced the evangelicals for a single reason - votes. Same reasons he said he would do something after everyone of the mass shootings, but refuses to do so...votes.
Trump's embrace of evangelicals - Is this any different that what any other politician does/has done pandering to special interest groups for votes?
Just as long as you understand this is about pandering, not competence.