Reply #102: A word from a progressive atheist...

[Sir Craig]

"I wonder what makes you think that headscarves, or any other religious garb, is a form of rebellion against Western society."

I think there is a bit of confusion here. Like anything else, a symbol (be it a garment, ornament, or whatever) doesn't become a form of rebellion until you try to put restrictions on it or outlaw it, which is what has happened here. The moment the symbol or object becomes taboo, it gains extra significance (call it "The Forbidden Fruit Scenario," for lack of a better term). Unfortunately, at this point the original message of said symbol/object becomes corrupted, which is how you end up with extremists.

As an atheist, I understand the importance of religion to many people–you become bludgeoned with the arguments enough times, you can't help but see how important, nay vital, it is for many people. I have no problem with this. It is not the symbolism that I object to, because I can ignore symbols, nor do I have a problem with educating about religious history. It is the proselytizing that concerns me. If that same Muslim girl told me she couldn't speak to me because I'm not a male member of her family, then we have a problem, because in order to function in society communication must be open, unrestricted, and, hopefully, civil. Other than that caveat, no problems.

Symbols have taken on far too much importance in our society than I feel is good, and I'm not just talking religious symbols. Flag-waving patriots worry me because they adhere to symbols instead of principles. That's how the flag-burners get so much of their power: by feeding on the public's devotion to symbols. Lydia Leftcoast makes a very valid point that if we assumed a laissez faire attitude, the strength behind those symbols would begin to diminish.

So let those who desire to do so wear their headscarves, their crosses, their yarmulkas. In time they may choose not to wear or display them on their own, but in any case no more significance should be given to them as they are creating no harm. Society will continue to adapt and evolve, but hopefully under more tolerant conditions.