Framing the debate of religion and public policy: The Christian Cartel

[kitkat65]

Apply it to the Robertsons, Falwells, Dobsons, Donahues, etc. who consistently use bully tactics to force their belief system on all of America.

What do you think?

From Merriam-Webster online
cartel
One entry found for cartel.
Main Entry: car·tel
Pronunciation: kär-'tel
Function: noun
Etymology: French, letter of defiance, from Old Italian cartello, literally, placard, from carta leaf of paper -- more at CARD
1 : a written agreement between belligerent nations
2 : a combination of independent commercial or industrial enterprises designed to limit competition or fix prices
3 : a combination of political groups for common action

A bit from Brittanica
association of independent firms or individuals for the purpose of exerting some form of restrictive or monopolistic influence on the production or sale of a commodity (in this case our Democracy). The most common arrangements are aimed at regulating prices or output or dividing up markets. Members of a cartel maintain their separate identities and financial independence while engaging…

[Cerridwen]

1. Dang near perfect. Cartel is a great word.

I just wish we could get the word 'Christian' out. Though they use what they call, Christianity, as their tool of choice, to my mind, there is absolutely nothing Christian about them.

Maybe - Dominionist Cartel? Dang, doesn't have the same punch and most people won't know about whom we speak.

Something Christian without the word - ....... thinking ........ thinking .....

I'll take 'code words' for 1000, Alex.

[kitkat65]

2. I use Christian because it's usually these same folks using the bully tactics

while also claiming victimhood. Maybe there are other religions in America that do the same but none of them are claiming that the United States laws are based on Christian doctrine. I calls 'em like I sees 'em.

[Occulus]

4. Christer Cartel?

Long 'I'.

[Cerridwen]

5. I understand. It's just -

I hate the idea of even seeming to bash Christians or Christianity. Yes, I have issues with Christianity - the dogma - and the hierarchy in various branches of Christianity; I'm a woman and one of their most consistent targets. But the teachings of Christ are quite wonderful - I guess I should note here, I am not a Christian of any branch. I hate to use that broad brush to lump true Christians with those would would exploit their beliefs for 'fun and profit.'

You see, our difference here is, I don't consider Robertson, Falwell, et.al. as as anything even vaguely resembling true Christians. They're the Elmer Gantry variety and it has nothing, let me repeat, nothing, to do with the teachings of Christ. Christianity is just the tool they claim and use now. Remove Christianity from their hands and they'll start selling Amway.

[kitkat65]

6. I hear you and agree that nothing coming from the Robertsons, etc.

resembles anything close to the teachings of Christ. I can see it both ways. As a Christian, I'm more offended by the monopolistic attitude of these zealots but realize that moderate Christians could be offended by the Christian Cartel label. So, would the offense stir up contemplation and dialog or merely destroy any chance of debate? Obviously, I don't know but I greatly appreciate your input and respect your opinion.

Hmmm . . . something besides the word Christian . . . hmmm . . .

[Cerridwen]

7. False Prophets Cartel - or - False Profits Cartel

or Prophets for Profit Cartel - The Cartel of the Money Changers - I'm just spitballin' over here.

:D

[kitkat65]

8. I'm going to have to mull over this one at a later time.

I want to call my mom and wish her a Happy Valentine's Day so I need to logout. I put you on my buddy list, though, so if I get any "divine inspiration," I'll give you a howdy.

Thanks!

[Cerridwen]

9. Eek! Thanks for the reminder. Gotta call my mom, too.

Have a great night - a Happy Valentine's Day - and congratulations on your Secret Admirer!

:hi:

[kitkat65]

3. Aw, shucks. Somebody out there must agree because I just got my first heart.

Thank you, whoever you are.

:loveya: