Fundamentalism

I'm currently reading three books. One book titled The Family by Jeff Sharlet is about Christian fundamentalism and the power it wields on American government. The book is educational and eye-opening to anyone interested in how some Christians in positions of political power utilize their influence for the benefit of Jesus.

What I find most interesting about this book is the in depth research the author underwent in order to accomplish the feat of writing this book. This guy truly did his homework. I learned of this book through Bill Maher's TV show on HBO, Real Time with Bill Maher. The author was a guest on his show and spoke about this book.

Because I am an atheist and seek to better understand the various intricacies surrounding religion, this book appealed to me, thus I purchased it and here I am. I can't say I am surprised by what the book contains. It tells of a group of politicians and some clergy that seek to influence government for the benefit of the christian agenda. This group considers itself not so much an organization, but a "Family." The Family's aim is to place people in positions of power or influence those that already are in power for the purpose of advancing christian "values." They operate in relative secrecy and their members consist of members of both Democrat and Republican political parties.

What alarms me the most, however, is the lengths these individuals go to undermine the American government's foundation of separation between church and state. Most Christians argue that this country is founded on christian principles and that our forefathers designed it as such. Nothing could be further from the truth. These Christians erroneously claim that the forefathers were "god-fearing" men of the faith.

I must say that I've read enough to know that Jefferson, Washington, Paine, Franklin and many others were vehemently opposed to an established religion influencing or running government. These men may or may not have been agnostics/atheists, but their writings, correspondence and thoughts surly demonstrate their disdain for Christianity and religion in general.

I find it insulting that people insist this country should be governed by Christian principles. For the most part, I find that these same fundamentalists are the biggest "sinners" around. How many Republican politicians condemn gays because the bible claims it is wrong only later to have those same politicians casting stones smoking a pole!!! Closet homosexuals is what most these Republicans are indeed.

Anyway, back from my rant. I feel that religion causes more harm than good to this country and society as a whole. I pity those that place their energy into faiths that are outdated and rooted in fantasy. I doubt we will ever experience genuine peace and understanding amongst us so long as religion perpetuates intolerance towards others.

Well, that's what's on my mind...much more on this subject, but then I'll end up writing for days!

Paz mi gente!