Batley Grammar School: Prophet Muhammad cartoon row 'hijacked'

[The Accountant, OBE, KC]

I don't, of course, believe that Gabriella is responsible for the thoughts and actions of every Muslim. That would be bonkers.

However your analogy isn't a good one. That you (or I) have the same cultural heritage as Boris Johnson isn't a choice on our part. We cannot alter the accident of our birth into the cultural heritage of the UK. That isn't the same for belief systems, which are a choice. We can choose our belief systems, whether political or religious and therefore therefore we should expect to justify those beliefs and also to how and why we do not agree with the thought and actions of others, based on the same broad belief. That doesn't apply in the same manner to something over which we have no choice - such as a shared cultural heritage.

I am fairly sure on various other threads there were many atheist posters who argued that you cannot choose to believe something you don't actually believe and you can't choose to disbelieve something you believe. Though I agree that beliefs can be influenced by environmental factors such as individual life circumstances or exposure to different ideas and cultures. 

[Udayana]

Udayana,

No-one's saying that the (lawful) right to object should be restricted either, but why should someone have redress because they've been offended?

My point was that if someone feels that they want redress for being offended they should have the freedom to argue for it.

As to whether redress may be required, it seems to me that it's possible to claim that offensive behaviour has similar effects to targeted bullying, harassment  and other victimisation, particularly wrt. mental health. Also, much ridicule relies on gross generalisations that potentially stigmatise whole communities, giving rise to discrimination, violent attacks and other issues. It is not as if speaking has no consequences or feelings are not important and don't matter.
   

[BeRational]

I am fairly sure on various other threads there were many atheist posters who argued that you cannot choose to believe something you don't actually believe and you can't choose to disbelieve something you believe. Though I agree that beliefs can be influenced by environmental factors such as individual life circumstances or exposure to different ideas and cultures.

I agree.

I do not think you choose your beliefs. Beliefs are emergent

[Nearly Sane]

I agree.

I do not think you choose your beliefs. Beliefs are emergent

I am with BR. The idea of choosing of beliefs makes no sense.

I am not with BR. On that basis, arguing that your beliefs are right becomes impossible on a straightforward idea of right.