by Nicole Limoges

Created on: March 17, 2010   Last Updated: April 02, 2010

 Why shouldn't a parent have the power to end hereditary religion?  Is it suggested that parents actually lack the right to do so?  Why shouldn’t they be able to, it is THEIR children? If it brings no emotional or physical harm to the child a parent can raise thier child exactly how they see fit....Right?

Although technically, children are not genetically given a particular religion, it is hereditary in that whatever household a child is born into  they will come to learn whatever it is that their parents teach them;  thus,  the children inherit  that religion.

In any case, religion seems to be such a sensitive issue that most people would rather just go with the flow of whatever religion was handed to them at birth. For a parent making the decision to raise their children in a different religion other than what was born to them is certainly a choice that takes much consideration. By doing so you will have your children turn aside from perhaps the years and years of tradition that characterizes exactly what your family's identity has always been, changing that could prove to be detrimental to your relationship with some relatives should they not be so accepting of your choice.

But,

Should that really be the only reason to remain within a religion… because it is innate part of your family’s culture and your family might not like your choice?

No.

Those born of a Jewish descent are not required to remain steadfast in the Jewish faith solely because they are Jews. Arabs should not have to adhere to Islamic religious ideals just because that is what is expected because their race. The Irish do not have to be Catholic. Those who have a faith passed on through many generations or was given one by their race is not obligated to keep practicing if that is not their desire.

The main point to take into contemplation is whether or not a person’s religion of choice coincides with what that person views, or comes to view, as right or wrong. If a person’s lineage depicts them as racists or  murderers does that mean a person must follow in that same path because it is what everyone before did?  Of course not, they can choose to end the path they are expected to follow if that is what they wish to do… it is their choice to make.

Religion is a personal choice, as faith can only be displayed by each person’s actions separately from one another. So a decision to change is not

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