Reply #32: Most basic tenet of fundamentalism is forcing ones view on others. [View All]

[ktowntennesseedem]

They've got to "win the world for Jesus," and a handful that I know genuinely try to to that. But because their's is the only genuine faith, it's hard for them to accept anyone responding, "thanks, but no thanks," or worse. They can't fathom how anyone would pass up what is in their minds such a sure thing.

And aside from those few that I've seen, most are too busy defending their own fragile belief system, and instead of trying to convert others all they do is criticize and condemn them. (At least they are more likely to leave you alone!) But collectively, the "we're-right-everyone-else-is-going-to-hell" mentality means they are incapable of debate. Their ability to argue is second-to-none, but that's a far cry from a genuine, respectful dialog. So I think the key lies in realizing that we're not fighting them in order to change them or convince them that we are right--just ain't gonna happen! We have to stand up for what is right, not be afraid to articulate our positions, and do it in such a way that engagement of the religious-right is the least of our objectives.

Not sure exactly what that will look like, mind you! But that's the direction I think we need to take.