CreateDebate / Iniquity's Waterfall

Should religious doctrine be required reading in high school?

Sun, 18 May 2008 23:42:17 -0500

This was a tough one to choose, especially the way that the choices were worded. In theory, I think it'd be great for religious texts to be taught OBJECTIVELY in school. But we live in reality, where that doesn't always happen. Teachers take it upon themselves to preach their own beliefs, and even if they're objective, not every major religion will be represented. You think schools are going to allow teachings from Islamic texts? I bet the majority of Americans think that all followers of Islam are violent, even though it's not true. The schools will only teach what they wish. Again, it's a great idea in theory, but I don't think it would work out the way we envision.

Is there a conflict in believing in both evolution and a personal god?

Sun, 18 May 2008 23:32:56 -0500

I would say no for the most part. I haven't studied on all religions, so I can't speak for them all. But it seems that there's no reason you can't believe that [a] god created the early world, and set the process of evolution going, or even guided it the whole way. The two aren't really incompatible, as long as the written text of the religion isn't taken word-for-word.

Which is generally better - the book or the movie?

Wed, 14 May 2008 16:09:13 -0500

The book, but not because I like to be some snotty jackass who preaches the wonders of literature. There's actually many things you can do in a movie (such as a great music score, or a montage) that aren't possible in books. But books tend to give a much longer experience. Plus, you get to visualize everything on your own, and make it look however you choose.

Should the US have seatbelt laws?

Wed, 14 May 2008 16:04:07 -0500

Personally, I always choose to wear one. Just like I choose to not smoke. But I don't believe that it needs to be illegal. As far as I know, it's not illegal to jump off your roof, even if you risk injury. If someone feels that they don't need a seatbelt (despite all the evidence to the contrary), that should be their decision.

And I wouldn't really compare driving to riding a roller coaster. I don't think you'd go unscathed if you didn't buckle up on a coaster.

Should guns be banned in America?

Wed, 14 May 2008 15:54:23 -0500

Making guns illegal wouldn't solve anything except to take them away from people that want to defend themselves. Is marijuana legal? No? Then why is it so easy to get a hold of? Banning guns will NOT keep them out of the hands of criminals. If someone wanted to get a gun, they'd find a way.

Is Scientology a cult?

Wed, 14 May 2008 15:50:49 -0500

Most religions are cults on a grander scale. Having everyone do the same thing, following the same rules or face punishment. Scientology isn't as much a religion as it is a money pit. Other groups don't require your life savings to be saved.

Should the US have seatbelt laws?

Wed, 14 May 2008 15:26:51 -0500

I believe that when you reach a certain age (18 I presume), you should choose whether or not you want to wear a seatbelt. Everyone knows the consequences, and if you decide you don't want to wear one, that's a personal choice.

Would the world be a better place without religions

Tue, 13 May 2008 22:41:18 -0500

Firstly, I'm not religious. I'm actually atheist. But I don't think a world without religion would be any better. Yes, religion has caused a lot of strife and violence in the world. But honestly, what makes anyone think it's the only cause? Even if you take away religion, people will always find a reason to hate other people. And for a lot people, religion provides guidance and hope, and helps them live a better life. Trying to pin societies' problems on one factor doesn't make any sense.