A new strict blasphemy law in Ireland makes it a serious crime punishable by a fine of up to $44,000 for anyone who has the audacity to deny the existence of the Almighty. The law defines blasphemy as “publishing or uttering matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation o matters sacred by any religion, thereby intentionally causing outrage among a substantial number of adherents to that religioin with some defenses permitted.” In response to this insult to free speech, Michael Nugent of Atheist Ireland, commented: “this law is both silly and ridiculous and dangerous.” It is silly because in a secular society the right of free speech can not be silenced by denial of being contrary to other views.
I do not have any pipeline to whoever or whatever resides in the sky. But, then again, since no one has ever seen the Old Man in the sky, and no one has proof they have spoken with it or him or whatever or whoever, how can those who deny there is someone in the sky be compelled to pay for having such views. Frankly, the only blasphemy is denying the right to express a religious or non-religious viewpoint.
I assume members of the Irish legislature which passed this law grasp they have now empowered fundamentalist Muslims and Jews and Hindus to take people to court for opposing their ridiculous ideas
