Doctors ask for "informed consent." Should religions also inform converts of possible harmful side-effects?

I think that's an excellent idea. Top on my list would be the warning that not everybody who uses the language of religion is interested in your spirituality. The test is this: if what they say promotes love, peace and unity, then it's true; if it promotes dissension, exclusion, and anger, then it's something else besides the gospel.

A close 2nd would be not to confuse the Holy Spirit with adrenaline. You might get warm fuzzies from your experience with religion, but those feelings are not proof of God's presence, just like the lack of those feelings is not proof of God's absence.

Those are the 2 things I see tripping up new members of religion.

1

Sure! WARNING following this religion may cause other simple minded people to judge you based on the views and actions of a minority of the followers simply because they are the loudest and make for good news stories. Ironically many of these people will also call you prejudice. Despite this you will feel they need to love them anyway.

I'm sorry for all those that are hurt in the name of religion. But I do believe that it is not the religion that is doing the hurting. I have came to see that these people that are hurting others only try to justify their hatered with religion. Even without their religion the would still spread their pain around only now some man with a tie has told them it is love. It is not the Gospel that I know and love. Never once did we see Jesus tell someone that they would burn in Hell. He gave them what they needed and showed them they were loved and then went on His way. When people start filling in the blanks with what they think should be there it is going to be trouble.

I am well aware of your equal symbol. I suggest you try living up to it. Remember it is not equality for me or you but for all.

Why would you say that religions never warn potential converts? Judaism refuses you until it's sure you understand the potential problems & are sure it's right for you. So much so, that some people mistakenly claim we don't take converts because we fuss so much that they need to have studied for at least a year, usually more, & have seriously considered how it will effect their relationships, their spirituality, all the aspects of spiritualtiy, & that it puts them at risk for antisemitic hate (not a smalll thing for converts to face.)

If you have ideas of it being brainwashing - I certainly hope that after a year of thinking about every last detail & being met with caution at every turn, if it's brainwashing they'd be aware of it.

The Jewish tradition is to turn away a potential convert three times to test their commitment.

Judaism isn't required for one to be included in the world to come, it's not the easiest of paths, and joining the Jewish people means facing a great deal of prejudice and misunderstanding.

Sometimes it comes from people with the best of intentions.

I'm trying to think, would I date a balding guy with a hard on or a guy with a head full of hair and great at oral. That is a tough one.

*Warning* This religion may damage your mind and your wallet. Logic has determined that religion can cause racism and intolerance. Do not use if you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant. Results in loss of rights for many users.

Second hand effects can also be damaging.

Religion is not like medical treatment. It is not necessary, but a free choice, and followers don't see negatives in the religion they follow.

Yes, there needs to be some truth-in-advertising laws regarding religion -- esp. warning people regarding religious believers' intolerance, hate and ignorance.

there are no negative side effects to following a religion based on jehovah god

we don't give people drugs or any substances for them to ingest