Articles: General

I argue that repetitive use of the term ‘religion or belief’ gives rise to misconception. It places emphasis on religion, which is in fact a ‘belief’ (acceptance of facts unsupported by evidence).

Even when the pioneering world-shattering Universal Declaration of Human Rights was being drawn up, the evidence was there. States involved in drafting it were often more interested in preserving their historical customs, religions, power, prejudice and convenience, at the expense of ensuring truly genuine, equal enjoyment by all citizens of the rights that they were advocating. We are part of a political revolution: one that is failing badly throughout the world. To bring about a humanist/human rights revolution much needs to be done.

Northern Ireland Court holds that baker's refusal to provide cake with same-sex decoration is discrimination. Here are the reasons why the judgment is right.

Early Christian rituals have been found for brotherhood unions between two men akin to 'marriage' ceremonies.

The Canadian Supreme Court has ruled that the right to assisted dying is part of the basic human right to life, liberty and security of the person. The reasoning behind this ruling has implications for Australian law.

The US constitution provides for separation of church and state. Their government is restricted from promoting, endorsing or funding groups simply because of their religious beliefs. US citizens are among the most religious people in the world This is based on the principle that whereas preferential treatment of religious beliefs by the state (state accommodation of religion) emphasises difference by treating specific groups differently, separation provides fairness by promoting equal opportunity for all to practice their Beliefs. This separation of church and state enhances the diversity of belief in American life. This is just one of the reasons for having a separation of church and state in Australia.

The current push by religious advocates for proposed Religious Discrimination Bills is designed to impose theocratic values on secular law.

Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights ('UDHR') provides that everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, and the right to practice their religious or other beliefs. This latter right is subject to limitation by government in the interests of public health, security and morals, and protection of the rights of others.

The major opposition to legalising medically assisted dying comes traditionally from religious institutions and individuals. Despite decreasing membership, sustained and ever-growing demand for the legal right to die with dignity, including the right to seek voluntary assisted dying (VAD), churches still retain great influence in the political world.