Respect' for Religion is Often Simply Tyranny Backed by Violence

OPEN DEMOCRACY
By Jeremy Fox

Of the many reactions to the recent terrorist events in Paris, perhaps the most controversial concerns the degree to which it is permissible to pillory religion and religious institutions. Let’s begin by recognizing that spiritual beliefs tend come in two basic varieties: polytheistic which accommodate multiple deities, and monotheistic which acknowledge only one. Hindus, Buddhists, followers of Tao and the philosophy of Kung Fu-Tzu (Confucius) belong to the first variety. They make no claims to exclusivity. The monotheistic religions have a rich history of slaughter and butchery. Though acolytes may think of themselves as peaceful, the Abrahamic faiths are grounded in violence and war. [link]