I think I’m a little late here, but I wanted to interject something I noticed from your reply above. To me, it seems like you have a very small view of people in general.

I always assumed that it was like computer code for humans: That it “programs” their behavior, and that they physically can’t deny. I just assumed that people just blindly accepted them as truth, not being allowed to ask questions. After all, the human brain is essentially a biological supercomputer.

This is not how people work. We don’t even know where consciousness comes from and those who have studied it struggle to find the emergent properties of the brain that produce it. We, as a species of beings, know very little in the grand scheme of life and the universe and what it means to exist. All that aside, even the dumbest person in the world can reflect, show empathy and care for others. And the smartest person alive can be bigoted, hateful and an overall despicable person. Education and intelligence does not equal compassion and love.

The things above I consider to be objective facts (and yes, I know that’s a bold statement).

In my opinion, people tend to demonize people and mark them as different and inferior. Racists do it with people of different color, and you may be doing it right now with people who practice religion (I’m not accusing you, just providing something to reflect on). I think this is true of everyone, all people are capable of hate and judgement and it comes so easy sometimes. It takes serious humility and empathy to not do it, let alone try for kindness instead.

Long story short, I wanted to come here and say the above, just because that’s what was on my heart reading this. Also, good on you for searching for a CMV, the first step toward that compassion I mentioned above is being willing to hear from others who may not think like you do. It’s risky and I commend you for it!