It's a typical 'new right' socio-political ethos. I thought it strange to have the queens speech on once and heard her rattle on about the king James bible...
It's not a case of atheists discussing religion or the blinkered perception that we have a 'national religion' it's the way we are being manipulated into thinking anyone who does not hold these Christian beliefs are in some way inferior.
It's not Christianity that creates a decent civilised society, here are a few examples that are suggested makes up what Cameron seems to crave.... Then ask yourself what his government have done to achieve that end.
Safety
Safety is a fundamental characteristic of a civilized society. The personal safety of citizens in that society should be guaranteed. This includes being protected from external forces and security within the society, from both the government, institutions and individuals. No person should fear loss of life or physical harm in civilized society.
Health Care
The right for all members of a society to have access to health care, regardless of social class or economic situation, is a staple of civilized society. Each citizen is entitled to the highest-quality health care the society is able to provide. Sadly, few nations today can legitimately claim this truth as a part of their society.
Access to Food and Water
A civilized society is one that provides the basic essentials of life to all its citizens. Granting access to food and water, so that no person will go hungry or thirsty, is another measurement of a civilized society. Many philosophers believe that how a society treats its worst off is how it should be measured.
Shelter
Basic shelter should also be provided to each citizen. Civilized society ensures that all people who live within the society are given access to a location where they can safely sleep and take refuge from the elements. Many Scandinavian countries have combated homelessness by providing government-sponsored housing for individuals living on the street.
System of Law and Government
In order for a society to function it must have an established system of laws. These laws should be designed to preserve the welfare of the common good and be for the society's best interest. The role of the government is one of an administrator, polling the needs of the society and governing according to those needs based on common interest.
Education
Education may not seem like an obvious measure, but equal access to education for all individuals is considered a strong indicator of civilized society. It is in the community's best interest to have a highly educated population. This promotes advancement, research and economic growth. The education system of a society should be equal for all and not prohibitive at any level. All citizens must be guaranteed the right to a full education and should not be discriminated from doing so based on cost, access or any other characteristic.
Freedom
Freedom is perhaps the most important mark of a civilized society, one that trumps all other units of measure. Freedom of thought, belief, word, religion, affiliation and expression -- and the guarantee of those freedoms -- is essential in a civilized society. The right to participate in the economy, government and culture of the society is akin to such freedoms.
Read more:
http://www.ehow.com/info_10027787_se...#ixzz2zW9b3xNr
I think what he means is when you have nothing and there is nowhere to turn all you can do is pray for help!
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