Is religion still relevant in modern society?

[Runa216]

padib said:

Runa216 said:
 Fuck's sake people, I just can't fathom how much stupid was concentrated into this discussion, and I'm embarassed to be associated with people who are so ignorant and inconsiderate. Haven't we been through enough periods of 'justified racism' to realize that, in a decade, you're gonna come out of this feeling like total asses?

If not, well, then you're a racist pig. Heil Hitler, I guess.

Yes, there are gross misrepresentations you'll hear from people entrenched in their religions, there's no denying that. An easy antidote to that is to open your world up and hear views that conflict with you own. For that, however, you need a very open mind.

My father is a very intelligent man, there is absolutely no doubt about it. But the fact that he doesn't challenge his mind with conflicting views (on certain matters) causes his opinion to stagnate in unilateralism.

I don't hope that on anyone, believer or unbeliever. I've also had my fair share of arguments with my own dad, and we're both believers! Familial arguments between opinionated members are quite common actually. And some opinions can be so far-out, it does cause rage (it does for me). But the challenge is to take the time to listen, and find ways to argue the points, not the people. But it's very hard for everyone.

I've spent the vast majority of my life with an open mind.  I've been christian, muslim, jewish, buddhist, pagan, and most recently (and prominently) atheist.  I've been pro life, pro choice, pro circumcision, anti circumcision, pro euthanasia, anti euthanasia, you name it.  I never, EVER get into a heated debate without thoroughly examining both sides of the issue before hand, and sympathizing with all points.  I have a more open mind than anyone I know.  Having a closed mind is when you don't consider the opposition, and neglect it based solely on "It's the opposite" rather than the facts.  

I have such strong beliefs because I HAVE seen both sides, I HAVE considered the pros and cons and have come to the most logical conclusion.  I'm so strongly against certain things because they're irrational.