Acid Test For Bible Bashers

[StreetCowboy]

Personally, I think that it would benefit my children to get more religion at school than they do; I think that without the religious background,a lot of our culture and even our language can't be understood.

Whether one believes it or not, It's still useful to know the stories. One doesn't need to be a communist to read Karl Marx

SC

[Neeranam]

OK to clarify, my friend is not a deeply faithful Christian of any variety, and definitely doesn't want his children to be receiving anything related to a "Christian education" as for example an evangelical would want for his family. Being kind to others and other virtues are of course great things, being taught quite adequately at Thai Sikh, Crescent International etc, but other things being equal he'd rather avoid places where the vast majority of students are of a different religion, that's all.

He also expressed this as a very minor factor, way down the list, far below for example the provision of a variety of extra curricular activities, not too much homework for the younger ones, and so on.

I'm sorry if my use of a derogatory term offended some here, I have no hard feelings for believers in whatever way of whatever creed. I'm just trying to make sure his kids don't end up at a place where they're taught "evolution is just a theory, humans actually walked with the dinosaurs" or "abortionists are murderers" sort of stuff.

A decent parent wouldnt teach their kids fairy tales or have others teach them fairy tales. Tell him to keep all religions out of their education and if they want to learn about it wait until they are at least 18yrs old

What a ridiculous thing to say! Do you actually think that Buddha, Christ, Mohammed and other prophets didn't exist? more than likely Are you a decent parent if you tell your kids this nonsense? yes

I feel that religion is for those who don't want to go to hell ( an assumption hell is real?) and spirituality ( whats is spirituality show the proof describe it) is for those who have already been there. I am no member of religion but respect them all and try to live a spiritual life. Live and let live. great when it doesnt interfere in your life but sadly all religions do

I got tired many years ago of listening to the 'enlightened' guy on the barstool in Pat Pong or Pattaya telling me that there was no God and all religious people were full of sh*t.

Yeah well u should of listened to him!!

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/may/7/seeking-facts-of-elusive-canon/?page=all

http://www.truthbeknown.com/buddha.htm

Both far more rational explanations than what we have now dont you think?

When my kids are 18 they can read this until then keep it out of their lives.

I'll pray for you.

[GuestHouse]

I think the OP needs to spend some time speaking to scientists and mathematicians on the subject of what is fact and what is theory.

The term 'flat earth' is a very good example.

Science and mathematics are branches of philosophy, they rely upon intellectual constructs, if the construct is wrong the whole basis of the theory is wrong.

There was a time when the best minds of the day believed the earth to be flat, until someone demonstrated it was not - it is arrogance to assume the accepted scientific philosophy of today is unquestionably correct.

As for 'in 50 years from now'

The Roman baths at Bath in the UK have a stone carving of the earth - the earth is depicted as a globe.

Somewhere between the carving of that globe and the late middle ages the theory of flat earth crept in.

Don't asume scientific/mathematical philosophy is correct, and certainly do not assume it is a natural progression - there is no solid basis for either assumption.

[Neeranam]

My children have been learning about Christianity and Buddhism from Nursery age. They go to a Catholic school now. My grandmother wasn't told about this as she even went crazy when my sister married a Catholic.

I'm happy that they get religious education as I don't feel qualified to give it. I'm not a Buddhist or Christian, although respect the teachings. I've always said that they can learn about all religions and decide which, if any, they want to be when they are 15.

[chiangmaikelly]

I think the OP needs to spend some time speaking to scientists and mathematicians on the subject of what is fact and what is theory.

The term 'flat earth' is a very good example.

Science and mathematics are branches of philosophy, they rely upon intellectual constructs, if the construct is wrong the whole basis of the theory is wrong.

There was a time when the best minds of the day believed the earth to be flat, until someone demonstrated it was not - it is arrogance to assume the accepted scientific philosophy of today is unquestionably correct.

As for 'in 50 years from now'

The Roman baths at Bath in the UK have a stone carving of the earth - the earth is depicted as a globe.

Somewhere between the carving of that globe and the late middle ages the theory of flat earth crept in.

Don't asume scientific/mathematical philosophy is correct, and certainly do not assume it is a natural progression - there is no solid basis for either assumption.

What are you talking about? The concept of a spherical Earth dates back to ancient Greek philosophy from around the 6th century BC. As a sailor from the time of my childhood I can tell you that any sailor knew the earth was round by the age of 7. You sail into port and look at a mountain getting taller. Come on guys pick on a better myth.

[a99az]

I know it goes against the usual practice here, but I'd really appreciate it if responses are limited to helping me achieve my requested goal. Otherwise just ignore me and I'll go away no worries. . .

Just wanted to point out that you seem to want to avoid 'Bible Thumpers', not bashers.

I'd heard bashers more frequently and both are listed in the Wiki - maybe you're a Yank?

Is this another yank bashing sorry

[tolsti]

It is ambiguous as to the age of the children despite its importance..... Americans go to 'School' late in their teens... whereas in the rest of the world people are going to college or university.

you could be going 'school' at age 30 or later!

[rattler]

I think the OP needs to spend some time speaking to scientists and mathematicians on the subject of what is fact and what is theory.

The term 'flat earth' is a very good example.

Science and mathematics are branches of philosophy, they rely upon intellectual constructs, if the construct is wrong the whole basis of the theory is wrong.

There was a time when the best minds of the day believed the earth to be flat, until someone demonstrated it was not - it is arrogance to assume the accepted scientific philosophy of today is unquestionably correct.

As for 'in 50 years from now'

The Roman baths at Bath in the UK have a stone carving of the earth - the earth is depicted as a globe.

Somewhere between the carving of that globe and the late middle ages the theory of flat earth crept in.

Don't asume scientific/mathematical philosophy is correct, and certainly do not assume it is a natural progression - there is no solid basis for either assumption.

I never assume science is correct but its a more rational way of trying to explain and replicate than inventing a fairy tale with magical "gods"

I could argue god was a peanut and no one could disprove it and according to some everyone should "respect" my view god is a peanut.

[isawasnake]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

[StreetCowboy]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

I don't think I would take into account religion when assessing a science teacher (I certainly don't when recruiting in my current job); nor race.

In fact, I try not to let my own prejudices stand in the way of employing the best candidate.

I don't think I knew the religious leanings of any of my teachers, except for the Maths teacher who also led the Roman Catholic assemblies. I would expect any school to teach most subjects pretty closely to the adopted curriculum, so it might be worth asking what curriculum a school follows.

Thinking back on it, I don't recall being taught evolution at school; I don't recall being taught most things at school, except for a particularly graphic doodle of Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton... but anyway, I don't think anyone but the most recedivist fundamentalists believes in a creation that contradicts evolution; few take the seven days literally - particularly not given the working culture and approach to project management in Thailand; not to mention the absence of clocks and days prior to the formation of the sun and the earth...

So in summary, I think the OP and his friend would be better to look at the curriculum and the teaching methods employed, and leave their religious prejudices to one side

SC

[candypants]

Personally, I think that it would benefit my children to get more religion at school than they do; I think that without the religious background,a lot of our culture and even our language can't be understood.

Whether one believes it or not, It's still useful to know the stories. One doesn't need to be a communist to read Karl Marx

SC

agree whole heartedly, religious understanding certainly is not a bad thing. some here are too busy being reactionary to see that.

ironically, it is probably as frequent that children denied religious instruction find religion as frequently as those brought up with religion later eschew what they are taught.

are there any lapsed catholics in the house?

[geriatrickid]

A very loooooooooooong time ago when l was a kid, religion was taught on a Sunday morning in the church hall. Though a few hymns were sung at school first thing. Church of England stuff.

You got a problem with Church of England schooling? I'm one of their products and look at how well I turned out. I am quite capable of dealing with the local heathens.

[isawasnake]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

I don't think I would take into account religion when assessing a science teacher (I certainly don't when recruiting in my current job); nor race.

In fact, I try not to let my own prejudices stand in the way of employing the best candidate.

I don't think I knew the religious leanings of any of my teachers, except for the Maths teacher who also led the Roman Catholic assemblies. I would expect any school to teach most subjects pretty closely to the adopted curriculum, so it might be worth asking what curriculum a school follows.

Thinking back on it, I don't recall being taught evolution at school; I don't recall being taught most things at school, except for a particularly graphic doodle of Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton... but anyway, I don't think anyone but the most recedivist fundamentalists believes in a creation that contradicts evolution; few take the seven days literally - particularly not given the working culture and approach to project management in Thailand; not to mention the absence of clocks and days prior to the formation of the sun and the earth...

So in summary, I think the OP and his friend would be better to look at the curriculum and the teaching methods employed, and leave their religious prejudices to one side

SC

Good points, and I agree with you for the most part. Yet, I do still feel that I can generally rely on Christians for some things, and I will be very suspect when it comes to others (just based on stats). To counter you though, you say "I don't think I would take into account religion...", but you probably would if you somehow found out the potential employee was a member of some strange, perhaps misunderstood, cult religion. Nobody can really control their prejudices. We act like we can, but we can't.

I thought the OP's question was what Christian school to send a child to that didn't teach antiquated ideas on science.... then I saw people critisizing his question, which I thought was perfectly valid, as do you it seems.

[harrry]

A very loooooooooooong time ago when l was a kid, religion was taught on a Sunday morning in the church hall. Though a few hymns were sung at school first thing. Church of England stuff.

You got a problem with Church of England schooling? I'm one of their products and look at how well I turned out. I am quite capable of dealing with the local heathens.

Somewhere they seem to have had a problem with Quality Control.

[StreetCowboy]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

I don't think I would take into account religion when assessing a science teacher (I certainly don't when recruiting in my current job); nor race.

In fact, I try not to let my own prejudices stand in the way of employing the best candidate.

I don't think I knew the religious leanings of any of my teachers, except for the Maths teacher who also led the Roman Catholic assemblies. I would expect any school to teach most subjects pretty closely to the adopted curriculum, so it might be worth asking what curriculum a school follows.

Thinking back on it, I don't recall being taught evolution at school; I don't recall being taught most things at school, except for a particularly graphic doodle of Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton... but anyway, I don't think anyone but the most recedivist fundamentalists believes in a creation that contradicts evolution; few take the seven days literally - particularly not given the working culture and approach to project management in Thailand; not to mention the absence of clocks and days prior to the formation of the sun and the earth...

So in summary, I think the OP and his friend would be better to look at the curriculum and the teaching methods employed, and leave their religious prejudices to one side

SC

Good points, and I agree with you for the most part. Yet, I do still feel that I can generally rely on Christians for some things, and I will be very suspect when it comes to others (just based on stats). To counter you though, you say "I don't think I would take into account religion...", but you probably would if you somehow found out the potential employee was a member of some strange, perhaps misunderstood, cult religion. Nobody can really control their prejudices. We act like we can, but we can't.

I thought the OP's question was what Christian school to send a child to that didn't teach antiquated ideas on science.... then I saw people critisizing his question, which I thought was perfectly valid, as do you it seems.

But it's not a question of religion; it's a question of curriculum. Most schools teach to a fairly strict curriculum, and if the curriculum says that evolution is part of biology, then they'll teach it.

There's the separate issue of religious education, but again, that should be fairly explicit, and most schools will be quite clear on this, to attract people that are suited to the school, and discourage people who are not.

SC

[FunFon]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

-

Why thanks for that. However I also feel you're overgeneralizing about "Christians", and certainly when it comes to making judgments regarding individuals and employment, unless it specifically pertains.

... but anyway, I don't think anyone but the most recedivist fundamentalists believes in a creation that contradicts evolution; few take the seven days literally - particularly not given the working culture and approach to project management in Thailand; not to mention the absence of clocks and days prior to the formation of the sun and the earth...

So in summary, I think the OP and his friend would be better to look at the curriculum and the teaching methods employed, and leave their religious prejudices to one side

But it's not a question of religion; it's a question of curriculum. Most schools teach to a fairly strict curriculum, and if the curriculum says that evolution is part of biology, then they'll teach it.

There's the separate issue of religious education, but again, that should be fairly explicit, and most schools will be quite clear on this, to attract people that are suited to the school, and discourage people who are not

-

Of course those are being scrutinized in the later stages, my only goal here is (was) to get help trying to quickly and painlessly screen out those Christian schools that do allow their faith to affect the curriculum inappropriately - at least in my opinion and it seems that of many here. Those that state clearly on their website that they were founded to meet the needs of Evangelical Missionaries I would presume do this very commonly, don't know about Adventists, pretty sure the Catholics don't.

And it's quite a large percentage of English-medium schools that fall into this category, even within those that use the word "International School" in their name. And it seems for marketing purposes some do actively downplay my concern so as not to alienate their majority-Thai prospect parent base.

Thanks for at least discussing the issue constructively. . .

[GuestHouse]

What are you talking about? The concept of a spherical Earth dates back to ancient Greek philosophy from around the 6th century BC. As a sailor from the time of my childhood I can tell you that any sailor knew the earth was round by the age of 7. You sail into port and look at a mountain getting taller. Come on guys pick on a better myth.

Has anything I said precluded the ancient Greeks knowing the earth to be a sphere - erm no....

Feel free to go off on one of your disconnected rambles but please at least try to teather one end in something that I've said, not something you've assumed I've said.

[Neeranam]

I think the OP needs to spend some time speaking to scientists and mathematicians on the subject of what is fact and what is theory.

The term 'flat earth' is a very good example.

Science and mathematics are branches of philosophy, they rely upon intellectual constructs, if the construct is wrong the whole basis of the theory is wrong.

There was a time when the best minds of the day believed the earth to be flat, until someone demonstrated it was not - it is arrogance to assume the accepted scientific philosophy of today is unquestionably correct.

As for 'in 50 years from now'

The Roman baths at Bath in the UK have a stone carving of the earth - the earth is depicted as a globe.

Somewhere between the carving of that globe and the late middle ages the theory of flat earth crept in.

Don't asume scientific/mathematical philosophy is correct, and certainly do not assume it is a natural progression - there is no solid basis for either assumption.

I never assume science is correct but its a more rational way of trying to explain and replicate than inventing a fairy tale with magical "gods"

I could argue god was a peanut and no one could disprove it and according to some everyone should "respect" my view god is a peanut.

[Neeranam]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

What about Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Max Planck, Kelvin, Mendel, Boyle, Faraday,Pascal, Descartes, Galileo?

[rgs2001uk]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

What about Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Max Planck, Kelvin, Mendel, Boyle, Faraday,Pascal, Descartes, Galileo?

Ah, funny you should mention Galileo, didnt the flat earthers have a problem with him?

http://4thefirsttime.blogspot.com/2007/09/1992-catholic-church-apologizes-to.html

Seems the are infallible after all,dont see any mention of the Cathars.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2000/mar/13/catholicism.religion

[rgs2001uk]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

What about Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Max Planck, Kelvin, Mendel, Boyle, Faraday,Pascal, Descartes, Galileo?

Already answered Galileo, as for the others you mention, thankfully, The Age of Enlightenment led us out of the darkness.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Age_of_Enlightenment

from same source,

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Age_of_Enlightenment#Important_intellectuals

[cup-O-coffee]

Why all the worry? Are you really that much worried that your child will be brain washed by others; let alone being made brain-dead like the Thais he is around every day? I would worry about the latter more than the former, and I do not perceive either of them as a threat. Kids who grow up in a sterilized environment are more prone to curse their parents in later years. Kids who grow up with a loving father there to guide them and enforce intelligence in them (among other behaviors and skills) can thrive in the pit of hell as angels.

Raise him with the angels and he'll probably end up being a wanna-be demon, and won't know what to do with the first real demon who crosses his path. Go back and listen again to the words in "A Boy Named Sue" by J.Cash.

[chiangmaikelly]

What are you talking about? The concept of a spherical Earth dates back to ancient Greek philosophy from around the 6th century BC. As a sailor from the time of my childhood I can tell you that any sailor knew the earth was round by the age of 7. You sail into port and look at a mountain getting taller. Come on guys pick on a better myth.

Has anything I said precluded the ancient Greeks knowing the earth to be a sphere - erm no....

Feel free to go off on one of your disconnected rambles but please at least try to teather one end in something that I've said, not something you've assumed I've said.

You wrote, "The Roman baths at Bath in the UK have a stone carving of the earth - the earth is depicted as a globe. Somewhere between the carving of that globe and the late middle ages the theory of flat earth crept in."

[Neeranam]

Why all the worry? Are you really that much worried that your child will be brain washed by others; let alone being made brain-dead like the Thais he is around every day? I would worry about the latter more than the former, and I do not perceive either of them as a threat. Kids who grow up in a sterilized environment are more prone to curse their parents in later years. Kids who grow up with a loving father there to guide them and enforce intelligence in them (among other behaviors and skills) can thrive in the pit of hell as angels.

Raise him with the angels and he'll probably end up being a wanna-be demon, and won't know what to do with the first real demon who crosses his path. Go back and listen again to the words in "A Boy Named Sue" by J.Cash.

I like your post apart from the part about Thais being brain-dead. Are you really being serious here? Do you mean Thais as a race?

Please elaborate.

[bigbamboo]

So does he want a Catholic school like Assumption or not?

Does anyone?

[Neeranam]

So does he want a Catholic school like Assumption or not?

Does anyone?

Yes, many people do. It's extremely hard, or expensive to get in there.

Catholic schools have a great reputation in Thailand because of what they did 50-100 years ago.

They are not the best academically these days but the name is still very important.

[isawasnake]

I think the OP has a perfectly legit question. It just so happens Christians are very good at some things, and very "ill-advised" when it comes to others. If I wanted a babysitter for my daughter for example, a Christian girl sounds great, if I wanted the baby sitter to teach my daughter about science, I'd may have to look elsewhere.

-

Why thanks for that. However I also feel you're overgeneralizing about "Christians", and certainly when it comes to making judgments regarding individuals and employment, unless it specifically pertains.

>>>>... but anyway, I don't think anyone but the most recedivist fundamentalists believes in a creation that contradicts evolution; few take the seven days literally - particularly not given the working culture and approach to project management in Thailand; not to mention the absence of clocks and days prior to the formation of the sun and the earth...

So in summary, I think the OP and his friend would be better to look at the curriculum and the teaching methods employed, and leave their religious prejudices to one side

But it's not a question of religion; it's a question of curriculum. Most schools teach to a fairly strict curriculum, and if the curriculum says that evolution is part of biology, then they'll teach it.

There's the separate issue of religious education, but again, that should be fairly explicit, and most schools will be quite clear on this, to attract people that are suited to the school, and discourage people who are not

-

Of course those are being scrutinized in the later stages, my only goal here is (was) to get help trying to quickly and painlessly screen out those Christian schools that do allow their faith to affect the curriculum inappropriately - at least in my opinion and it seems that of many here. Those that state clearly on their website that they were founded to meet the needs of Evangelical Missionaries I would presume do this very commonly, don't know about Adventists, pretty sure the Catholics don't.

And it's quite a large percentage of English-medium schools that fall into this category, even within those that use the word "International School" in their name. And it seems for marketing purposes some do actively downplay my concern so as not to alienate their majority-Thai prospect parent base.

Thanks for at least discussing the issue constructively. . .

Life is about "playing the percentages" I think. Many governments can't do this, but individuals can. Christians, in general, are very good at some things. They aren't very good at others. But you are right, there are Christians who break the mold I'm sure, just as there may have been a KKK member or two that wasn't prejudiced. But, that doesn't detract too much from the power of the assortment of inferences one can make.

[GuestHouse]

What are you talking about? The concept of a spherical Earth dates back to ancient Greek philosophy from around the 6th century BC. As a sailor from the time of my childhood I can tell you that any sailor knew the earth was round by the age of 7. You sail into port and look at a mountain getting taller. Come on guys pick on a better myth.

Has anything I said precluded the ancient Greeks knowing the earth to be a sphere - erm no....

Feel free to go off on one of your disconnected rambles but please at least try to teather one end in something that I've said, not something you've assumed I've said.

You wrote, "The Roman baths at Bath in the UK have a stone carving of the earth - the earth is depicted as a globe. Somewhere between the carving of that globe and the late middle ages the theory of flat earth crept in."

Erm.... you are aware that the Roman empire reached Britania sometime after they conquered the Greeks aren't you?!

The logic, to spell it out for you is - The Greeks knew about the earth being a sphere, .... then came they romans, they knew about the earth being a sphere (probably from the Greeks) and then sometime between the carving of the sphere that is at the roman ruins at Bath the idea came about that the earth was flat.

So yes, I know what I'm talking about.

Have some fish oil, it might help.

[chiangmaikelly]

What are you talking about? The concept of a spherical Earth dates back to ancient Greek philosophy from around the 6th century BC. As a sailor from the time of my childhood I can tell you that any sailor knew the earth was round by the age of 7. You sail into port and look at a mountain getting taller. Come on guys pick on a better myth.

Has anything I said precluded the ancient Greeks knowing the earth to be a sphere - erm no....

Feel free to go off on one of your disconnected rambles but please at least try to teather one end in something that I've said, not something you've assumed I've said.

You wrote, "The Roman baths at Bath in the UK have a stone carving of the earth - the earth is depicted as a globe. Somewhere between the carving of that globe and the late middle ages the theory of flat earth crept in."

Erm.... you are aware that the Roman empire reached Britania sometime after they conquered the Greeks aren't you?!

The logic, to spell it out for you is - The Greeks knew about the earth being a sphere, .... then came they romans, they knew about the earth being a sphere (probably from the Greeks) and then sometime between the carving of the sphere that is at the roman ruins at Bath the idea came about that the earth was flat.

So yes, I know what I'm talking about.

Have some fish oil, it might help.

OK. All I am saying is the average 10 year old could figure out the earth was round. You could have chosen a better example.

[weegee]

OK ...OP...are you really trying to find out about Muslim Schools or what?????? Dont disguise your post.....MALAYSIA is probably the best way to go.