Reply #118: Well, I think that I can explain why 'religious right' is used. [View All]

[Maat]

And no offense is meant.

As many DUers know, my passion is fighting the Hardright Religious Extremists in this country. As a Universalist and Religious Scientist, I honor all paths, including believer and nonbeliever. I have atheist-friends, liberal Christian friends, Jewish friends, Pagan friends, and New Thought friends. It is my firm belief that progressives of all stripes must stand up to these extremists.

Those at Americans United for Separation of Church and State coined the term, "religious right." Rev. Barry Lynn, J.D. (both an ordained reverend in the United Church of Christ AND a bright man with a law degree) wanted to distinguish the Falwells and the Dobsons from those who were both progressively-minded and believers. We could think of a better term.

I don't honing in on "fundamentalist," because I do have a few friends who are traditionalists, but would never think of imposing their beliefs on others. I don't like 'evangelical right,' because I have many friends who will discuss their faith with those willing to listen, but will not force themselves upon those who don't want to listen. I rejected "Christian Nationalists," because extremists come from many faiths. Professor Joan Bokaer's "theocratic right" has potential, although some, particularly the Southern Baptist theologian, Al Mohler, are clever enough not to say "theocracy." I'm thinking that we have to brainstorm and come up with a name. Until then, perhaps "hardright religious extremists" will do.

The group that I am trying to come up with a name for ... is the individuals that Paul Weyrich has targeted for decades, including the Southern Baptist Convention members and the Assemblies of God members - the group that includes everyone from Al Mohler and Richard Land to Falwell to Dobson to Gary North.

I believe that many of us are united, believer and nonbeliever, on this Board, and seek to address this Republican Noise Machine, the Hardright Relgious Faction. We stand tall. We just need to come up with a good name.

Thoughts?