Prayers Banned

[jomifl]

An atheist group has won a test case banning prayers before local council meetings, is this an infringement of human rights or a victory for human rights?

[sandyRoe]

Dickythecook, an atheist affirms that the evidence he gives will be the truth...
It's as valid as anybody elses.

[New Judge]

Yes you can refuse to swear on the Bible.

A number of Holy books (and wordings) are available for those of different faiths, and the option to take a non-religous affirmation remains for those of no faith or who do not wish to make a promise based on their faith.

[dickythecook]

Was just thinking that committing perjury wouln't have the edge without the threat of hell and eternal damnation. :-)

[sandyRoe]

I'm not altogether sure that perjury is a mortal sin.

[jno]

you do have a point, Dicky. A Christian swears before a god who could despatch him to Hell. An atheist acknowledges no such higher authority, so affirming is pretty meaningless. You could do it on a Richard Dawkins book, I suppose.

[jomifl]

jno :-)

[naomi24]

Sandy, //In these straitened times is it wise to antagonize anyone? What harm can a prayer do?//

Antagonise the people who think elected councillors’ time should be spent more appropriately?

[mibn2cweus]

Some might argue that prayers are entirely appropriate for the onset of governmental procedings as it sets the tone for the absurdities that are sure to follow.

[TWR]

Is this place the UK going to be re=named, "Be careful what yousay UK"

[jno]

it might be considered a form of blasphemy, sandyRoe, and I think you are liable to be stoned for that.

[dickythecook]

Are you telling the truth jno?

[jomifl]

I suspect that Sandy has already been stoned a few times.

[jno]

Leviticus 24:16

[TWR]

Are things going too far in the UK? H.Rs, H&S, P.C. Freedom of speech,

[pdust]

so you think that making people attend prayers they dont want to do is okay twr?

[TWR]

Did I say that Pdust?

[pdust]

did i put a question mark at the end twr? i was asking. you asked if things had gone too far in the uk.... the thread was mainly about people not having to pray if they didnt want to or so i thought... if i read you wrong then sorry.... you didnt elaborate just seemed to whinge

[TWR]

No need to apologise Pdust.