Religion excluded

Norman Bonney (Letters, 18 September) is correct: I do believe morality collapses into socio-cultural relativism without a foundation in the character and will of God.

However, my response to this diversity of opinion is different from his. I do not wish to banish secular moralising and philosophising from school assemblies, but Mr Bonney wishes to exclude religious voices.

In the secularist tradition, Mr Bonney treats religious views differently from any other. If a religious message draws children towards that point of view, so be it. What’s wrong with that?

He may not wish to entertain the possibility, but a religiously inspired message might just make sense to some pupils.

The word “proselytising” has negative connotations – that’s why secularists love to use it – but there is nothing sinister about children hearing religious views articulated and making their own minds up.

Many people come into school to present their philosophical case. For example, what does Mr Bonney make of Stonewall’s school work? It is invited into schools to present their views in a most direct manner.

How about politicians or environmentalists visiting schools and promoting their philosophy?

The secularist line seems to be “let debate flourish in schools, but exclude religious voices” – and once their own secular views are the only ones represented, then we will have a fair and neutral system.

Mr Bonney may refer to religious “doctrines that have caused so much harm”, and I believe that many secular doctrines are causing much harm. But I don’t demand the education system be based exclusively on my views.

Richard Lucas

Broomyknowe

Edinburgh