This thread is inspired by another: view original post
OK, I think we need to define persecution. Too many people in the theist/atheist debates think it means something it does not.
Most times either side is voicing an opinion of the other. Is having and/or voicing that opinion persecution?
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[quote]Persecute 1: to harass or punish in a manner designed to injure, grieve, or afflict; specifically : to cause to suffer because of belief 2: to annoy with persistent or urgent approaches (as attacks, pleas, or importunities) : pester[/quote] The way things are handled by too many in the religion/atheism threads, then yes it is by definition. Voicing an opinion is just that, making your own view known. When it is accompanied by jabs, left handed comments, intentional antagonism, and all other manner of disrespect just because they disagree, then it is no longer voicing an opinion, but rather aggravated insults. For what? No good ever comes from it. Neither side is ever going to change their beliefs because of what the other thinks. Not this way. Those doing this are only doing it for their own twisted, immature gratification. If people disagree, fine but know where to stop and simply disagree. Negative opinion = disagreement Negative opinion accompanied by insults and inflammatory remarks = persecution