The debate about teaching religion or not teaching religion in public schools suggests that both sides need to see a middle ground. Pro-religionists seem to want an organized Christian doctrine paid for with tax dollars. Anti-religionists seem to want no reference to Christianity because tax dollars would be used and some kids do not profess Christianity. The abandoned middle ground is the world of ethics and morals. Just because we disagree on religion in schools, we should not ignore the need to instill a sense of ethical conduct in our next generation. Look around you. Violence, dishonesty on the national stage, racial divide, constant LGBT pressures, etc.—does anyone doubt that discussing these topics for an hour a week with our kids in a controlled environment would be harmful? Do we lose the opportunity to “teach” an elevated level of behavior by throwing out the bath water (the religion vs. Non-religion debate) with the baby (a sense of decency through a discussion of the issues facing the world today and tomorrow)? It seems to me that our kids will be dealing with many of these issues all their adult lives. Why not help to prepare them by telling both sides of each issue objectively–if that’s possible. You never know–it might just help us all to understand the opposing viewpoint and live together more politely.
The issue is not religion vs non-religion; the issue is civility, understanding and tolerance vs. hatred, bias and senseless violence. Think about it.
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