Hey MMO-Champ Mods, Admins, Users and Readers--
I'd like to preface this post by saying that this is more of an inquiry about why it is prohibited (despite searching through the numerous thread-posting guideline posts and using the search tool, I was rather unsuccessful in finding an answer).
With the recent inclusion of the set of off-topic forums, I was hopeful that the Religion topic might be available for discussion . While I was rather disappointed to see it was an unapproved topic (coupled, reasonably I suppose, with Politics) for posting in terms of content, I can understand why--it has been, is, and will more than likely be a touchy topic for people everywhere. Considering how large the MMO-Champion forums and community are, I came to the conclusion that this topic (in addition to some of the other hot-button topics) were prohibited due to the nature of how discussions on these topics usually morph into debates and 'flaming'--where both sides of the argument are guilty in more ways than one.
However, I believe I am most troubled by the inclusion of some topics but that religious discussions were still not permitted. In particular, LGBT threads. I find, that in principle, Homosexuality, and one's sexual orientation in general--at least in today's day and age--could be compared to religion in the context of discussing them similarly. Both are often contested, and debated in the public forum (as a whole, not limited to just these forums, of course), and in most cases, an individual's views on one or the other help shape their worldview and outlook on life.
While I personally do not identify with the LGBT community (in the sense of sexual attraction), I feel that I can identify with them when it comes to being an unjustly-persecuted minority. In a similar fashion, most people align themselves (both politically, ethically, morally, and the like) according to their beliefs and belief systems. For many (as I have gathered personally from talking to LGBT friends and guildies), being gay or transgender is something that helps define who they are. I think that many of the devout--regardless of belief system, structure or lack thereof--would say that being a part of that group/denomination/sect/community/ect defines how they do things in their lives--often times, its so important that its paramount.
While I will adhere to the best of my ability the rules and guidelines set by the moderation staff here at MMO, I would love a little background as to why. The world of religion is one that offers new insights and has shaped how human history has played out--for better of for worse. I firmly believe that constructive discussion can occur on this topic--even online.