Things are better since the decline of religion

I REFER to Seán de Paor’s cryptic comment on religion and the Olympics headlined ’How to get folks to turn to religion’ (Irish Examiner letters, August 27).

There have been a great many positive changes in Irish life in the last few of decades that seem to have a direct connection with the decline of religion.

For example, we now have a more open and less violent education system; greater tolerance of people with differing ethical outlooks and lifestyle choices; greater participation of women in public and economic life; greater control over the functions of our own bodies; a healthier, more critical attitude to even the most iconic public figures with power over us; a greater honesty and ease in discussion of formerly taboo subjects from sex to suicide; a more positive, modern image abroad; better treatment for children in institutionalised care.

We can even (if we want) go to see Madonna on a Sunday.

Given these wonderful improvements in our society (and I admit some are more wonderful than others), wouldn’t a more useful first question be: ‘Why get folks to turn to religion?’

For the life of me I can’t think of one reason.

Jaime Hyland

Heinrich-Mann-Str 26

13156 Berlin

Germany