Since I tend to make the assertion that basing your beliefs and your life on faith is illogical and irrational, I would like to clarify how it is that religious beliefs and rational thought do intermingle. And since I, apparently, write long-winded explanations because I think I know everything (compliment courtesy of JY), I will try and make this brief.
Though it is not rational to accept religious beliefs, religion is based in rationalization. It is through questioning our existence that we have been led to religion. Religion provides answers to these questions. Therefore, religion is a [b]means[/b] of rationalization. [i]Accepting[/i] religion, however, depends not on the use of rational thought, but the desire of rationalization. To accept religion you must desire a way of rationalizing your existence and the nature of life and the universe. This desire for rationalization is a good thing; it is what leads us to understanding. However, accepting religious beliefs denies the cultivation of true rational thought. It is not rational to accept something based on faith, as is necessary to have a belief in God. Rational thought stops at the acceptance of religious beliefs.
"Tragically, a nation that was created by intellectuals and visionaries has now been completely taken over by venal corporate gangsters, delusional Christian fruitcakes and hopelessly shallow Texas shit-kickers." -Tom Robbins
