In my conversations with theists, the problem of morality seems to be a recurring topic. Some theists claim that their morals come directly from god, and others claim that their morals come from the bible, and overall most seem to feel that it is impossible to have morals without god. This point has been argued time and time and undoubtedly beaten to death, but it is still brought up all too often. It is one of those arguments for theism that makes my jaw drop. If there are no morals without god, why am I not running around killing everyone? Anyway, much of the bible contradicts the idea that morals come from god and/or the bible and I can’t help but bring it up each time I end up in that type of conversation. Take Deuteronomy 22:28-29 for just one of many possible examples. I honestly don’t mean to take the idea of rape lightly here, as I have firsthand experience, but, if morals come from the bible (or directly from god, which would still include the bible since it is his divinely inspired word) then why aren’t more theists committing rape? And, is that the verse to go to for justification for the theists that do? Obviously, this practice is completely unacceptable. Yet, with things like this in this “holy” book, why do so many people still cling to it?

Countless animals in research, farms, breeding facilities, and colleges have been removed from their homes in the middle of the night by animal rights terrorists wearing masks and have had to endure the stress of leaving the only home they have ever known.  In my experience in biomedical research, I have seen thousands of animals with better lives and housing than many pets; most have toys, a super clean facility to live in, and all the treats and love they could ever want.

The Animal Liberation Front, a group which includes anyone who willingly breaks the law to “liberate” animals from any place where someone may claim they are being abused, many times attempt to use religion and people’s emotions and ignorance to their advantage in order to scare people into adopting their point of view.  

In one article, the ALF cite quotes which are supposedly from early Christians, including “Christ’s teachings”, in an attempt to push their vegan/vegetarian ideals on people.  The major problems with it are obvious; the opinions of others do not need to have an impact on you, and the simple fact that Christ was probably an invention formed from human imagination and similar hero stories.  It makes no sense to me for someone to base their lifestyle on that.

Many religious people view animal euthanasia as murder and some of the opposers of euthanasia cite many reasons, including their religion as a reason for their refusal to end the suffering of dying pets.  Some of those that are opposed to euthanasia say they feel that their god should control life and death.  

Most people unfamiliar with the term may have some strong misconceptions about what happens to an animal when it is euthanized.  According to the American Veterinary Medical Association Guidelines on Euthanasia (formerly the Report of the AVMA Panel on Euthanasia) published in June of 2007 (page 1):

The term euthanasia is derived from the Greek terms eu meaning good and thanatos meaning death.2 A “good death” would be one that occurs with minimal pain and distress. In the context of these guidelines, euthanasia is the act of inducing humane death in an animal. It is our responsibility as veterinarians and human beings to ensure that if an animal’s life is to be taken, it is done with the highest degree of respect, and with an emphasis on making the death as painless and distress free as possible. Euthanasia techniques should result in rapid loss of consciousness followed by cardiac or respiratory arrest and the ultimate loss of brain function. In addition, the technique should minimize distress and anxiety experienced by the animal prior to loss of consciousness.