Most cultures have some sort of recognition (ceremony, ritual, etc.) for major changes or phases of life, including birth. Often these ceremonies got (or get) incorporated into religion. We have inherited such a system. These ceremonies play an important social and cultural role and I think that to abandon them altogether wouldn’t be the best idea. But I don’t think they have to be or should automatically be religious and I wish we had more secular options.
As far as indoctrinating children into belief systems…I think that there are some beliefs are quite harmful. However, I wouldn’t want someone to be able to tell me that I can’t teach my children my beliefs; therefore, I won’t tell others what to teach their children. That being said, there’s a big difference between simply teaching your children your beliefs and keeping them completely sheltered. I don’t think it’s right to keep children from information. * They should be allowed (and encouraged) to learn all that they can. Parents should teach their children to be critical thinkers, that way they can come to conclusions on their own.
*Stipulation: information like birthday surprises, etc. are ok to hide in my opinion; and the information should be appropriate for the maturity of the child. |