As the Christmas season approaches, it seems like an appropriate time to mention this. For many decades now, Christmas has often been termed "Xmas." The usual rationalization for this is that the Greek letter, chi (at least, the uncial), looks exactly like our letter, "X"; and chi is the first letter of "Christ." More and more, however, I am seeing Christians referred to as "Xtians." Since there is a "t" in "Xtians," it would be a redundancy if the "X" refers to Christ (which also contains a "t"). Do others see the flaw in their argument, also?
What is the implied antecedent of "it"? Is it "Xmas"? Or "Xtians"? By the way, I have no reason to disbelieve you. But I do believe that sensitivity toward others is important. (Remember, it is also easier to type the "N" word than it is to type "African-Americans"; but we still much prefer the latter.)
Yes, when the state of those others is involuntary - ie, race. Religion however, is optional .. and therefore open to ridicule.
Are you claiming, then, that it is perfectly okay to "ridicule" religious beliefs (and, by extension, any who hold to them)?
Depends on to what use they put their religious beliefs. When they try to force their beliefs on others or use their beliefs as a rational for controlling the behavior of others then their beliefs become fair game.
Let me put it this way: There was a time when Jews were ridiculed with the "K" word. (I do not know your age; so I cannot say whether this was before you time, or not.) Most people would consider that to be pure anti-Semitism; and would therefore find it quite offensive. Would you? Question: Do you consider Christians to be "fair game" in a way that those who hold to other religious beliefs are not? I hope that you will not simply ignore--or dance around--this fundamental question...
