A study conducted by the International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU) just recently reported that atheists and other religious skeptics are often times not treated equally in societies around the world. This is especially the case in some Islamic countries, where such individuals can be put to death. While the punishment may not be nearly as severe in some European countries and the United States, such individuals are still often times not treated equally.
As the report states:
"...In Greece and Russia, the Orthodox Church is fiercely protected from criticism and is given pride of place on state occasions, while Britain bishops of the Church of England have automatic seats in the upper house of parliament.
While freedom of religion and speech is protected in the United States, the report said, a social and political climate prevails 'in which atheists and the non-religious are made to feel like lesser Americans.'
In at least seven U.S. states, constitutional provisions are in place that bar atheists from public office and one state, Arkansas, has a law that bars an atheist from testifying as a witness at a trial, the report said."
While I can't say I'm shocked by the report's findings, I am disappointed. It's sad to think we're equals in the eyes of the Constitution in having the freedom to hold whatever religious beliefs we so choose, yet that based on those same religious beliefs, we aren't treated as equals in the eyes of the majority in this country.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/09/atheists-humanists-suffer_n_2268681.html
As the report states:
"...In Greece and Russia, the Orthodox Church is fiercely protected from criticism and is given pride of place on state occasions, while Britain bishops of the Church of England have automatic seats in the upper house of parliament.
While freedom of religion and speech is protected in the United States, the report said, a social and political climate prevails 'in which atheists and the non-religious are made to feel like lesser Americans.'
In at least seven U.S. states, constitutional provisions are in place that bar atheists from public office and one state, Arkansas, has a law that bars an atheist from testifying as a witness at a trial, the report said."
While I can't say I'm shocked by the report's findings, I am disappointed. It's sad to think we're equals in the eyes of the Constitution in having the freedom to hold whatever religious beliefs we so choose, yet that based on those same religious beliefs, we aren't treated as equals in the eyes of the majority in this country.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/09/atheists-humanists-suffer_n_2268681.html
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