Parents shouldn't indoctrinate their children to believe that one particular religion is superior.

REBUTTAL: 1. What I do have a problem with is indoctrinating the young to believe that their religion is superior, and all others are in fact wrong. --> The main problem with Pro's case is that he is arguing from the standpoint that all religions are created equal. However, a believer of any religion would tell you that their religion is in fact the 'right' one. If they didn't feel that way, what would be the purpose of following a religion at all? Religion is not a fad; it's not an outfit you can try on, get tired of, and change when you feel like it. Instead to those with strong religious beliefs, practicing their religion and keeping it an important part of their life means valuing it and its teachings above all other teachings. Indeed followers of Christianity, for example, will tell you that Christ's law is more important than any human law. This doesn't mean that religious people don't have to follow man-made laws; however, it simply indicates that there is ONE TRUE LAW above all other laws. This is a belief they hold onto and uphold with all of their hearts. Now, if one maintained such strong beliefs and truly regarded religious teachings with 100% certainty, why WOULDN'T they teach their children the same thing? To offer an opportunity for your child to stray from your beliefs - what you believe the 'right' thing is - would be bad parenting on your part. For instance, if a parent believed that cheating on a test is wrong, the parent would be morally responsible for passing that ideology onto their child. Likewise, if a parent had a strong Christian faith, that parent would also be responsible for instilling a sense of religious purpose and education to their child. 2. In my opinion children should be exposed to not only the faith of their parents, but also those of other cultures. Now obviously parents are not going to adopt this, so I suggest that all students be required to take a comparative religions class in school. --> I agree with the first part of this -- exposure to other cultures is always an important aspect of education. However, with a society (government) so inclined to keep a distinct separation between Church and State, REQUIRING a religion class seems a bit extreme. Also, keep in mind that children do also learn a little bit about each religion in classes regarding World History, for example. 3. There is virtually no evidence for any miraculous claims in any religion, and therefore it is very irresponsible to teach it to children as if it were fact. Children are raised to believe that it is respectable to hold a belief or opinion without any evidence, and against all logic. --> Pro is missing the point. Religion isn't about facts, evidence or logic. Religion is based on spirituality and FAITH. The whole concept behind religion is that you believe in something even if you cannot fully explain it. It is not irresponsible for parents to pass on their religious beliefs; in fact, it's a moral feat. Who is Pro to say that it is not respectable to hold a belief without any evidence?! Perhaps that is the beauty of the teaching, and one every parent has a right to instill in their child. 4. The children are not the only ones harmed by this indoctrination though. --> But this debate is about a parent/child relationship, so let's try to stay on topic, please. 5. What about when the beliefs of ones parents are imposed on a child and actually do cause harm? (i.e. circumsision) --> Circumcision is a medical procedure that is often performed for non-religious purposes. If Pro is attempting to argue that circumcision should not occur because of the potential dangers, this argument must extend outside of religious parameters and upon all of society... meaning circumcision should be outlawed on the grounds of child abuse. Pro must make a point for this in order for this argument to stand. 6. There are emotional effects of many religions too. The fear of hell is one belief that can inflict serious, and long lasting mental trauma on young individuals. --> There are many things that can inflict serious and long lasting mental trauma on young individuals. For instance, negative images in the media can trigger deep-set negative feelings regarding self-esteem. Does that mean that TV, newspapers and magazines should be banned? The thought of going to prison is also another traumatizing thought. Should incarceration be illegal or never discussed? Apply the same concept to war, divorce or even striking out in a little league game. My point here is that society can only do so much to protect young citizens. Further, the counter-argument to a concept like Hell is Heaven and/or eternal bliss/salvation/enlightenment/etc. That thought can be COMFORTING. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - MY CASE: 1. Parental Rights A) Moral Teachings B) Religious Benefits 2. Cultural Impact 3. Changing Minds Every parent has the right to raise their children the way they see fit (so long as it does not infringe upon a child's legal rights). This includes passing on any aspects of one's culture, including religious beliefs and practices. For some parents/people, religion is a link to morality. While I do not feel that one needs to be religious in order to comprehend morality, I do recognize the benefits of a parallel religious education. While Pro chooses only to outline the negative teachings of certain religions, he ignores fundamental concepts like justice, forgiveness, charity and other moral teachings upheld by various faiths. Religion has also been known to improve other aspects of one's life. For instance, religion has been known to improve a person's mental well-being. It also promotes a sense of community which helps to form lasting relationships with others. Religion has helped people cope with death and other life obstacles; there have also been many documented cases where a person's beliefs have been the reason for their ability to fight a disease or overcome other health battles. My point here is that while religion is not perfect, it does have its benefits. Parents have a right to pass on their beliefs and their culture. As one learns, grows and matures, they have the moral responsibility to adapt to society and all of its diversity. If they are smart - or appreciate a thorough education, understanding and appreciation of spirituality/culture - they have the right and the opportunity to educate themselves on other beliefs via schooling, the internet, the library, open forums of worship, etc. Nobody is forcing an adult or even a child to believe in anything. To affirm the resolution is to breach a mutual understanding between Church and State, and is a direct violation of human and parental rights.