Religious politics is a dirty game

Submitted by Stefcho (United Kingdom), Dec 1, 2009 at 10:52

Separating politics and religion makes sense because political criticisms can be differentiated from religious ones. Islam, however, acts disingenuously in this respect. It treats almost all criticism (whether political, social or otherwise) as a "religious" attack. In this case, the Swiss acted first (which I thank them for) by seeking and winning a referendum, yet European countries have been repeatedly beaten into political concessions (submission) by one religion and one religion alone.

The left needs to consider whether it is still desirable to continue coercing citizens to 'respect' Islam and hold out their hands in friendship - even as Islam unapologetically erodes their culture and freedoms (often cruelly mocking the lack of resistance). In my view, religious tolerance and respect can only be given freely and willingly (as it is, without even saying, for Sikhism, Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, etc.). Islam, unlike all other religions, seems hostile and unworthy of respect precisely because it aggressively demands respect and, if ever refused, seeks punishment and retribution against those who question it. Respect and trust are not unconditional - they must be freely given, or they cannot be given at all. Therefore, I ask the left: How can we accord such a politically aggressive religious ideology as Islam with respect? And why should we when their respect and trust towards us is so manifestly lacking?

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