Theory 2: As religion is fairly benign by itself, it should be left alone

and the time and energy that could be spent attacking religion should instead be used to:

1. Support the continuing separation of church and state
2. Defeat those who seek to use religion for political advantage.


I also think this makes sense from an electoral perspective. A party that styles itself as being opposed to religion will have a very difficult time winning elections.

Imagine two scenarios.

Scenario One:

Democratic Theme - These so-called "christians" are stealing our rights, fostering hate, etc.
Republican Theme - We are the party of christian values.

While the Dem theme is true and the Repub theme is false, the GOP will win and win in this scenario.


Scenario Two:

Democratic Theme - Keeping government and religion separate is critical. Democrats support real christian values of mercy, justice, equality, peace, and caring for the poor

Republican Theme - We are the party of christian values.

Here the Dem theme discusses religion in terms that the religious and non-religious can agree and provides actual issues christa ins should support as opposed to the Republican's hollow slogans.


Disclaimer: I am in no way calling for the end of important philosophical discussions about the value or non-value of religion. I am merely saying that we should not play the christian v. anti-christian game the Republicans want us to play.

Example: I despise James Dobson not because he is a christian, nor even because he thinks homosexuality is a sin. I despise James Dobson because he uses the political process to punish those with whom he disagrees on religious matters and seeks to divide and cause anger and hatred among our citizens.

Shoot, I've defended the snake handlers on here as having the best church music out there. It's really great stuff, gospel on acid.

However, when their religion starts to affect MY life, it's time for me to hit back. Hard.

Here's hoping the legal system takes good care of Reed and Dobson.

and as an ex-evangelical, I know that much of the criticism directed at Christians is completely misguided.

I don't care about creches at City Hall, saying 'Merry Christmas,' or even Congressional chaplains. The country is becoming secular just like Europe is. But forcing the issue results in big losses for very little gain.

Any candidate whose campaign ingores or purposely alienates Christians is going to have a very hard time winning in most parts of the country.