Where would madam like her crucifix?

I have just been reading this article with interest. It discusses clashes between different religions, and between religion and secularism, mainly on the subject of physical objects. For those who don't know my background, I was raised Jewish and practised for some years until realising a few years ago that I am an atheist, at which point I stopped attending synagogue as I don't like religious hypocrisy. I believe in freedom of expression including freedom to practise a religion, but I also believe that religions shouldn't get a Get Out Of Jail Free card when it comes to human rights, and these two beliefs can conflict with each other until the cows come home. My Jewish background will always be with me and it does colour my attitudes. For example, like other Jews I really don't like proselytisation. Some people might see it as leading lost souls to God. I see all its history of destroying cultures, forcing people into hiding, fuelling violence, encouraging bigotry.

For the examples given in that article, I agree with some and disagree with others. ( Read more... )