Quote Originally Posted by Louis VI the Fat View Post
I have a clear hierarchy of the theoretical and practical respectability of certain religions, yes. Child sacrifices to Baal are pretty low on the list, for example.

Perhaps this latter, yes.

But what of those who adhere to Baal? I can't say I respect the person.

Your questions about terminology are essential, but I fail in coming up with a few quick thoughts.
Right, that's where it gets tricky, because to a certain extent the person is their beliefs. When you say a belief is ridiculous, you are calling a small part of them ridiculous. And it may be that a belief is a big enough deal that you lose respect for the person.

So saying "play the ball not the man" is a bit euphemistic, or equivocal or orwellian or two faced or whatever word I'm looking for here. You are always playing the man, it just seems to us that there's a proper way to do and an improper way.