“It’s never a good idea to discuss religion or politics with people you don’t really know.”
Agree or disagree?
‘David Cameron, ummmm, who is he again?’
‘Barack Obama, the name is familiar; isn’t he an actor or something?’
‘Have you seen last night’s episode of The Biggest Loser?’
Reasons why we shouldn’t be afraid of talking politics or religion to people we don’t necessarily know, well, just look at the above statements if you need convincing.
What is wrong with talking politics or religion? Isn’t that what people have always done for centuries? Isn’t that how the world has changed, and things have progressed; by developing ourselves through knowledge, and taking an interest in what is going on around us? Aren’t politics and religion what has bound societies together in the first place?
Why not talk about either topic; they are after all parts and parcel of our everyday lives. We can’t stay immune from the tendrils of religion or politics invading upon our lives at some point, and in some form.
Why can’t we remain immune? Well, because religion and politics remain the two great fundamental pillars in our societies; where most topics and situations spring from. Both topics have spurred on and driven; rights, laws, culture, history, art, sociology, poetry, philosophy and so on and so on.
Then how can we avoid someone talking to us about these great fundamentals? We can’t, simple!
If it is a prerequisite to be firm friends or family before we can talk religion or politics, what other topics are off limits too? Maybe we should confine our ‘polite’ conversation merely to comments regarding the weather. NO, PLEASE, NO!!!!!
I know that religion and politics revolve around opinions, and these can bore people (poor things); but do we embargo other topics too as they rely on opinions also?! NO, we don’t!
I have had plenty of random people talk away to me about whatever was on their minds at the time, and no, they didn’t know me! Yet, that sporadic, general splurge of conversation and opinion sharing amongst one another is part of our natures, and it brings us together. I think someone talking to me about politics or religion, whether they are friends, acquaintances or even a stranger, is wonderful and it shouldn’t be denied!
It shows enthusiasm for something more profound than the usual consumerism, image obsession, inane television programmes, getting drunk and having sex with strangers.
If it was a choice between talking to someone or anyone about inane television programmes or politics and religion, I know which I’d choose!
I maybe dismissed as an ‘armchair’ politician or religious zealot (which I am not by the way), but then there are worst things in the world to be categorised as. I’d prefer that, then not knowing anything about the world I live in. I prefer to have the interest and knowledge rather than to be ignorant.
Why can’t we just feel free enough to speak our words to anyone, and anywhere?
There is after all freedom of speech; so say what you want, to who you want and when you want to. Don’t apologise for it!
I for one am tolerant of random political or religious chit chat, so PLEASE continue!
***Above image came from – http://prairiefirenews.com***
The Savvy Senorita 
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Bex, I respect anyone willing to engage in a conversation about deeply held values, particularly when you know that the person you are talking to does not share your own opinions or values. This quality is at the heart of a liberal society, in the original sense of the word. You are such a peson and I respect you for it.
Malcolm, many thanks and complete appreciation for your input and considerate words. I am honoured by the respect being bestowed upon me by you.
Bex
Ah, yes Bex – I have this dilemma too because although I am open to conversation with anybody about relig/politics – excluding “strangers” really limits your options! – but there are only so many people I feel like I can have a decent conversation with. Like a VERY few…its sad, honestly.
You raise good questions, but all I will say for now is that it is no accident religion and politics are considered “taboo” to talk about, especially publicly, or outside the family, etc.
Best,
-Paul
Thanks for you response and input Paul!!
Yes, I can see why conversation or quality conversations can be limited to the few. It is true that these one off conversations may not produce enlightenment, but still they hold worth. Well, for me anyway; as I am used to having people converse about the oddest things spontaneously!!! Whether that is good or bad I just go with it!!
I do see your point about the ‘taboo’, and see that label alone could restrain people, but maybe those shackles should be shed? If we became used to such conversations then they would no longer be deemed a taboo.
What do you think?
Best to you as always,
Bex 🙂
Well yes, precisely Bex!! Politics should be a part of daily conversation as far as I am concerned ~ what about you?
-Paul
Hey Paul,
I don’t see why not! Also encourage it to be more widely taught in high schools too. The UK hasn’t so many schools were politics classes are part of the curriculum.
Bex 🙂
Same here in the US…
Ah, right – I wondered if it was.
Hmmm… which religion do you follow btw?
Simplest answer I can provide via online communication is; I don’t follow any religion.
What about you??
same here!
Cool 🙂