Why do people refrain from discussing religion in the work place or other settings?

Question

Why do people refrain from discussing religion in the work place or other settings?

Answer 1

There's an old saying that goes something like: Argue not with things concerning God.  More wars were fought over beliefs of men, than anything else in the world.

Answer 2

Because it creates too many arguments

Answer 3

Because arguments happen often and you can't disprove religion so people just get wound up and hold those feelings towards the other for long periods of time. It just leads to bad places and dysfunction ultimately.

Answer 4

I discuss religion at work all the time.  A discussion about religion is fine when you're attempting to learn more about someone else's religion and how it affects their lives.  

The problem comes in when people try to convince another to change their religious beliefs.  An underlying theme of any religion is faith.  Faith is a confidence or trust that doesn't rely on factual proof.  Therefore, a discussion about religion that is attempting to change another's beliefs is an attempt to apply logic to an illogical belief system; and a belief system that is usually very personal and important to the individual.  In my experience, it ultimately results in one person challenging the other to "prove" their beliefs which is completely counter to the idea of faith.

Answer 5

I dont think refrain from discussing religion, but i do imagine it is a controversial topic, where many people have their own views. When two opposite strong-minded collide it could to distrub the work-place.

The reason why I dont think people actually refrain from talking about religion because it might cause controversy but it is still an fastinating and intesting topic to learn about.

Answer 6

Discussing religion in the workplace is dangerous because, in doing so, you may make others fear they will be discriminated against if they do not agree with you, or you may be discriminated against by someone who does not like your religious ideas.    This creates unnecessary stresses.

If you want to discuss religion,  do it where no one's livelihood is at stake.