Quote Originally Posted by bipper
I really wish that public schools might offer a brief class on at least an over view of religions. Not to spiritually enlighten people, but just for the fact that there is a loth of people whom see other religions as completley different, and just rediculous. I think it would be worth it (especially in the us) to create more of an understanding of other people. (almost on the same lines as cultural studies and social studies)
Excellent point, and a useful idea. It actually happens, too - in Geography class at high school, we were taught about the basics of many major religions, and the societies they're prominent in: Christianity and Islam, in particular. There was never any promotion or encouragement, rather just a description of the core beliefs, and how the cultures evolved.

As for its "importance" as far as teaching goes... Religion's always gonna be a touchy subject. If schools even teach students about religions, some parents will start crapping bricks about it. Then there's the issue of ensuring that students get told an accurate account of each religion. With science, the theories are concrete and often quantifiable (on paper, at least) whereas religion involves a lot of personal interpretation and faith - which is perhaps why some people would say it's best left to parents, churches and personal choice. Although a truly balanced, objective overview of other religions would do wonders for countering prejudice and intolerance...