The Pitch: Banning All Religion

[Zophia]

Compassion, empathy, sympathy, things which stories often give us, should not be lightly dismissed. There is a reason why Pathos is listed as one of the three major tools of Oratory by Aristotle. Logos alone cannot give us a clear picture nor can it give us true justice. And facts, well, facts and evidence can be as misleading as ideology itself in the right circumstances.

The same book that gives you feel-good stories about prodigal sons also gives out bloody commands to put people to death. It has the potential to inspire good works but also acts of hatred and denigration. And its followers have the potential to take it all as the literal truth -- not just bits and pieces, but to act as if every word -- commands about loving your neighbor AND those that say "their blood is upon them." -- came from the mouth of god.

If it were only like Chicken Soup for the Soul then I think you'd have a point... but it really isn't. Most of the Bible actually isn't like that at all, and it isn't often treated as just an inspirational storybook.

Emotional and inspiring things should not be done away with. I don't think anyone has said that. But you don't need religion for it. mile: