[Algernon]

Originally Posted by Hyper Sonic

I was just wondering what your opinions are on teaching religious values to children over absolute truth (I mean nobody really disputes that 1+1 = 2 in base 10)

In my opinion it is a form of brainwashing since, at least in the first world, nobody needs to be religious to do well in life. However, I also concede the point that religion can teach important morals about right and wrong yet overall the evil teachings of it (abortion is bad, kthx) stifles objective learning and giving children the tools to work out for themselves whatever beliefs they want.

I also do not think many people below about 14 can objectively decide what they believe without looking to authority whether a teacher, pastor or family to tell them what to think.

If I ever have children, even though I don't want any, I will not make them go to church. My mother actually got quite angry when I said this, most likely because she believes the more you force it upon someone the more they'll believe it. Heh, who knows. I'm not going to be the Christian parent that ruins God in the eyes of my child by forcing it upon him/her. I want my children to experience in on their own, and not be resentful like lots of atheists I know.

The only time I'll make them go to church is Christmas or Easter. That's fair. They will be C.E.O's (Christmas Easter onlys)

As for children in general, children are highly influenceable. Religion is not good, morals and ethics are though.