I would be very supportive of teaching students religious doctrine including all the worlds major belief systems. It would be my wish that this type of reading and education not begin until junior high simply for the level of understanding one must have to absorb the similarities and differences.

It would be a dangerous subject matter if the teachers got into trying to change ones beliefs and/or "spreading the word." The curriculum must be well thought out and taught "as a matter of fact" similar to History or Literature but not be a part of either subject. The part religion has played throughout the history of mankind is huge in its impact and it continues to this day.

So, yes, I think it is extremely important that students learn how and why religions have had and have such a tremendous impact on our lives from the beginning and throughout time. One can achieve this by learning all religious doctrine thereby bolstering their understanding of World History as well. It is a heavy subject matter that would take some time to absorb but I think it's well worth learning.

I believe that if religious doctrine was required reading, much greater tolerance understanding towards other religions (especially those facing discrimination, such as Islam) would be achieved.