In fact, sacredness, blasphemy and demand for respect are thought control devices intended to silence intelligent inquiry.  Respect is something we may give or withhold: it may not be presumed or dictated; it must be earned.  

Sacredness, blasphemy, taboo and hell fears are part of a complex of religious ideas that make mental slaves of us.  Holy lands and holy books and holy graven images have caused endless terror and bloody strife.  It is time humanity grows past its tribal adolescence.   There are real problems to attend to.   

Our various religious institutions can become a unifying web of human support and kindness instead of jealous sects, each with its own ancient mythology.   It will start if we ask our ministers, imams, rabbis and priests to stop teaching children ancient nonsense that separates us into incompatible cults. 

It can start in Duluth.  We can have open discussion of these matters in our congregations.  It requires mental bravery to oppose the blasphemy taboo.   But we can do it;  it will liberate us.

William van Druten MD