Discrimination is the mechanism of evolution. It will occur whether we like it or not. Yet discrimination is in disgrace today. It is not "politically correct" to discriminate. If we are to accept that all people are of equal worth, does this imply that to discriminate is somehow wrong? Well, there is discrimination and there is discrimination.

One form of discrimination can be targeted at attributes with which nature has endowed us, attributes over which we have no control. For example, consider: genes, gender, skin colour, height, baldness, age, and such like. Another form of discrimination can act on aspects which we have chosen for ourselves. I include: religion, sexual preference, marriage, number of children, pastimes, diet etc.. I would call this latter "cultural discrimination". In a society of mutual respect, designed for the survival and equal opportunity of all, I would expect there to be no encouragement given to discrimination against the "gifts" of nature. Moreover, I would hope that there would be legislation against such discrimination. What nature bestows is not a valid candidate for prejudicial judgements.

Cultural discrimination, however, could be entirely consistent with respect for other people, while not necessarily respecting their chosen beliefs. Our bias, if any, should be towards truth rather than preferring prejudice. Individuals would be free to choose their beliefs, but they must accept the social and political consequences of their choice. In our mutually respecting society, such consequences would necessarily fall short of persecution. Persecution is an act of disrespect against people, as people, not as ideologists. Eccentrics have a place in any society. There is still a "Flat Earth Society". There are millions of people who believe in astrology. Unless, in the course of pursuing their beliefs, these people exhibit disrespect for other people, as people, they can be safely left to their delusions. No doubt we all have our own pet delusions.

"People fight hardest of all to preserve their delusions." {Michael Moorcock}

Physical fighting for or against harmless delusions would be unacceptable in our society.

So, how would society determine how to deal with an issue. To what extent can we choose our health, say, or our level of education? Now we are in the realms of politics. Politicians would have to assess to mood of the times. Provided that subsequent policies were the result of the continuing search for truth, compatible with mutual respect of persons, and with the overall goal of universal survival, then cultural discrimination, positive or negative, should be a benefit to society, not something to be deplored. Just as the duty and rôle of government would be to determine for which hazards the nation will protect or compensate individuals, it would also be responsible for which cultural choices could invoke legal discrimination.

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