‘Moral Blindness’: Do Liberals Look Down On Religious Tradition?

I wouldn’t say that I look down on religion, what I would say is that I am severely frightened of fundamentalism coming from any source. When people blindly throw their support behind an idea, be it religious or secular, scary things happen. Ultimately I believe that monotheistic religions can be nothing but divisive and I think this is counteractive to peace. However, on an individual level when I come into contact with religious people and their ceremonies, celebrations and rituals, I am respectful, reverent and curious.

I agree with TWE’s comment: “I believe a “true liberal” is tolerant and open minded…nor do they want to change others’ beliefs.” –although in being extremely inclusive, I’d leave out the “and does not have a need for moral guidance from a religion.” While I personally resonate with that–I don’t think it necessarily makes someone a “true liberal” or not.

I think the best we can hope for is an environment in which freedom is at a maximum. And “freedom of religion” is necessary–but “freedom of religion to dominate” does not ultimately promote freedom; it stifles it.

To answer the original question more pointedly: I believe the form of “liberalism” on the rise (in the United States at least) is one that pines for a European-style government, that believes itself smarter than everyone else, and takes every opportunity to urinate upon Judeo-Christian religions. (Although the other religions are considered quaint and wise.)

Religion is looked down in modern times as a natural effect of progress. It is correlated heavily with social failure and decay, and is and has always been a significant force behind global violence. When it was practically the only large and developed social institution, for example in the middle ages, it had some positive impacts on culture, for example preserving educational systems and keeping records. But at this point in history religion is woefully incapable of offering enough positive social contribution to balance out its damaging influence. It is an intellectual crutch, a justification for intolerance and xenophobia, and generally an outdated and yes, backward worldview. It is not enough that many people have positive personal experiences with religion; if it were not for religion, these good people would have something else to believe in. It is in no way irreplaceable and certainly not necessary. The overall effect is overwhelmingly negative and it deserves zero respect – It is an act of kindness and understanding in itself to not actively oppose it.

i don’t think it’s religion that is being looked down at, but rigid social customs cloaked as religious and cultural behavior. If we isolate the behavior from the religious and cultural binds, you realize what remains is superstition and or a violation of rights. That definitely needs to be looked down upon. Of course I am generalizing, but I hope I made my point. Also I am not taking fundamentalists in consideration here. I consider them to be a whole different issue.