what is the most important aspect of the interaction between belivers and non believers

[cheyanne]

189. How to find common ground with fundamentalists.

1. First of all, of course, is mutual respect. This can be incredibly hard to achieve. It means that you accept that they truly belief what they say and that you respect their right to believe it. If you can't do that, deal-braker!

2.If once mutual respect has been agreed upon, then the difference between proselytizing and discussion needs to be made clear. Neither side should be trying to change the other's opinion.

3. Then we can talk about what is common ground. In theological matters, that can be unlikely, other than the basics: there is a god, he is good, love thy neighbor. All religions have at least those beliefs in common. For non-believers love thy neighbor is usually a belief, too.

So where is the common ground? It is found in the real world application of the religion. How to love thy neighbor. How to protect the needy/helpless? How to insure that religious differences are not used to denigrate others.

By agreeing to these guidelines it should become apparent if the participants really want to find common ground. It should prevent discussions devolving into theological matters that cannot be resolved.

Remember you can't debate beliefs and you can't change someone's beliefs. You can, however, work with them for the common good.

Our democratic system is built on the idea that people with different belief systems can find common ground to build a nation.

The sticking point is agreeing when someone's beliefs impinge on someone else's freedom.

Tough job.