Are Children from Religious Families Meaner? Debunking the Myth

It is often claimed that children from religious families are meaner or less tolerant than those from non-religious backgrounds. This notion is a misrepresentation based on superficial observations and misunderstandings. In reality, the nature of an individual's actions and behaviors is influenced by a variety of factors, including the quality of religious teaching, the child's upbringing, and their interpretation of religious teachings.

A Distinguishing Factor: True vs. False Religion

Let us distinguish between those who claim to be religious and those who truly are. Some individuals may externally profess their religious beliefs but fail to adhere to the core principles of their faith. Using religion as a tool for dominance or oppression does not align with true religious teachings. Those who truly understand and practice their religion will not exalt themselves above others, but rather promote unity, compassion, and peace.

The Golden Rule in Major Religions

Many major religions promote principles that advocate for treating others with kindness and respect. The Golden Rule, one of the fundamental ethical principles, is present in various forms across religions. Here are a few examples:

Bahá'í Faith: The Bahá'í writings emphasize the importance of unity, fairness, and treating all as one soul.

We should walk together as one soul, eating with the same mouth and dwelling in the same land that the signs of oneness and the essence of detachment may be made manifest. — Bahá'u'lláh, The Hidden Words, Arabic No. 68

Christianity: The Bible teaches the importance of loving God and treating others as oneself.

He said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.' — Matthew 22:37-40, King James Version (KJV)

The Influence of Proper Religious Teaching

Truly religious children, when taught their faith in a proper manner, should embody the values of love, tolerance, and forgiveness. Religious teachings that promote unity and respect for others will shape their behavior positively. For example, in my own upbringing within the Methodist tradition and the Bahá'í Faith, I was taught to love all and treat them with respect. This upbringing instilled in me a deeply rooted sense of empathy for those suffering from abuse or bullying, and I often spoke out against such cruelty.

Conclusion

The meanest and most cruel individuals often lack genuine belief or are influenced by corrupt, intolerant, or authoritarian forms of religious training. True religion, when taught correctly, nurtures virtues that lead to kindness and compassion. By promoting these positive values, we can create a more harmonious and understanding society, where children from all backgrounds can grow into empathetic and loving adults.