Discussion Questions Chapter 5

V. Ethical Religion and the Child

1) Black says, "Just as with sex education, religious ideas play upon the child whether the home or school provide for them or not." Do you agree, disagree? Give examples.

2) Black describes some "needs" that children have. Could you make a list of "needs" as you see them? Indicate ways in which they can be satisfied. Are there different ways of satisfying the same need? Explain and illustrate.

3) Black describes a "child's religion" in a rather interesting paragraph. Do you agree with his description? Is it really a "child's" religion?

4) Should non-Christians celebrate Christmas? Why, why not? How?

5) If we would educate children, we must first learn to listen to them. What does this mean? How does this apply when "children ask about God"? or Death? or Sex?

6) What is meant by a "sense of belonging"? What are the dangers involved, the advantages? How is it achieved? Illustrate.

7) Should children "build their own religion"? Can they?

8) Klaber lists "the following hopes for our Ethical child..." Refer to this list. Do you find the list adequate? Comment on each of the items.

9) "Religion begins in the home." Do you agree, disagree? What role does the Sunday School play?

10) "Liberal religion . . . must be discovered." What problems does this point of view create for   education? What benefits accrue from this attitude?

This document is part of a larger document, "Understanding Ethical Religion," edited by Howard B. Radest.