RELIGIOUS BELIEFS RESTRICT FREEDOMS HERE, TOO

Recent news stories note that Barbie dolls are banned in Saudi Arabia by
religious law, with the implication that we are free because religious law
doesn't restrict our freedoms.

But in looking at freedom in America, we find the purchase of alcohol banned
by law in thousands of counties, and on Sunday in thousands more. Gambling,
drugs, and sex for money are also banned nearly universally, unless the
government is getting its take.

As we show our disgust at religious-based cultures and their intolerance for
"Western" values, we should examine how we have allowed religious beliefs to
restrict the freedoms and liberty that we once held in high regard.

DAVID SAROSI, Suwanee