We need to separate sense from nonsense

Editor,

Sometimes in these letters-to-the-editor we find Bible references to Luke, John, Matthew, etc. This is all well and good since surely in religion there can be some wisdom — and perhaps also some nonsense.

One of the bits of nonsense is that without Christianity there would be no morals, no guide for proper human living, no basis for our laws, humans would run rampant. Could Judge Roy Moore be right? How does one learn the truth?

It might benefit us all to read religious texts — not just Christianity or Judaism — but also some of the Quran, skim through Bhagavad Gita, and find some history of Native American or African beliefs. Don't limit yourself — read some critical reviews, too. Watch the History Channel. Diversify.

If you sincerely are a seeker of truth (and not just reading one source to justify your pre-existing opinion), also check out some excellent scholarly books:

The Science of Good and Evil (Shermer, 2004)

Who Wrote The Gospels? (Helms, 1997)

The End of Faith (Sam Chase, 2004)

Why do this? Partly for personal decision making. But also because the social and political future of our country and, indeed, our role in the world may hinge upon what our collective knowledge (or lack of knowledge) is.

Honestly considering a diversity of information and thought is valuable whether you are examining religions, trying to accurately understand your medical condition, or simply weighing whether to invade another country.

You want the truth? Then go beyond any single source, whether in religion, medicine or politics. Use your spectacular human mind to question and explore until you truly can separate the wheat from the chaff.

What is sacred? The truth is sacred.

Gene Johnson

Polson