I was initially surprised that evangelical Christians would support Donald Trump, given his track record of infidelity, dishonesty and abusive behavior. But many of them still stand behind him. Eventually, I realized that his supporters had been pre-conditioned to act in this manner by their religious beliefs. They have been taught to have “faith” in something without having any proof to support their ideas. And when their beliefs are challenged by reason and evidence, some act as if they have been physically attacked, striking back quickly and with great anger.
Around the world, various religions have maintained beliefs that serve to elevate one group of people over another, causing much suffering for those who are not true believers or who are otherwise “different.” If you try telling Kim Jong Un that he is not divine, or telling the Taliban in Afghanistan that women should have the same rights as men, I doubt you will like how it turns out.
We need a global rethinking about all religions and how their followers are affecting the livability of planet Earth.
Although different religious leaders have widely differing beliefs and core values, most countries have another “god” that is pretty much the same. That is, of course, money. And I believe that the pursuit of wealth is the greatest enemy our planet is facing at this time.
The idea that we must not take any actions to slow global warming that would have a negative economic impact on the world’s richest people and corporations is just plain nuts. We need to clear our heads of petty differences and work together to save our future.
— Mark Beaudin
Anchorage
Have something on your mind? Send to letters@adn.com or click here to submit via any web browser. Letters under 200 words have the best chance of being published. Writers should disclose any personal or professional connections with the subjects of their letters. Letters are edited for accuracy, clarity and length.