Religion
All religions are equally sublime to the ignorant, useful to the politician, and ridiculous to the philosopher.
Athough I am not spiritual, I have no objections to religious faith as such. I respect people that believe deeply and thoroughly. I recognize that, for them, faith can represent an emotional foundation and support often unequalled in the secular world. And organized religions are a fascinating component of all social systems since the dawn of humanity, and perhaps beyond.
I however hate bigotry and people who feign, cherry-pick, or otherwise misuse their faith. People who indoctrinate children or try to convert gullible individuals. And those who earn money from and manipulate their followers.
Among the most appalling are cases of misuse by democratically elected politicians. Here's an example statement from one of the most disgraceful world leaders of the recent history: "God loves you, and I love you. And you can count on both of us as a powerful message that people who wonder about their future can hear." — U.S. president George W. Bush, Los Angeles, CA on March 3, 2004.
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religion cult faith superstition healer witchcraft sect belief supernatural god celibacy spiritual