Religious hatred

MP's in the House of Commons are to vote on amendments to the Racial and Religious Hatred Bill.

As I've stated before, I'm no fan of this Bill, because it evidently undermines freedom of expression. As a libertarian I don't believe in many limits to freedom of speech.

Religion is not an innate or intrinsic trait. People aren't born religious. They only acquire religion through socialisation. Religious belief can also be altered and renounced. Because of this it cannot be as bad to criticise or speak foul of religion.

As in all cases of freedom of expression, people can ostracise others who express offensive or objectionable views. You can also use your freedom of expression to counter, expose and discredit such views.

IMO, this is just another example of New Labour's worrying authoritarianism.