The Funny Side of Organized Religion

Some of my favorite jokes are told in the context of what could otherwise be considered a heavy or serious topic - in this case, people's religious beliefs. A lot of the best humor is, by its nature, pointed, irreverent, or even obscene, by some people's standards (see my other hub on The Aristocrats); it works best when its objective is to counter those voices that wish to censor, indoctrinate, or establish an environment of political correctness and tolerance for blatantly irrational thinking. Of the current major figures speaking out against religious dogmatism, I think Sam Harris does the best job of weaving jokes, irony, and absurdist comparisons into his talks and debates to their maximum effect -- enhancing instead of derailing the argument or diminishing his points in any way.

Also along these lines, I really appreciate the discordian parody religions like Church of the Subgenius and Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster (also known as Pastafarianism) - the latter of which was created in response to the effort to teach intelligent design in the Kansas public school system. Their websites and printed materials are filled with satire and not-so-subtle jokes about organized religion and the more laughable elements of their dogmas and traditions. The comedy cartoon Southpark also has a long tradition of religious satire, from the very first viral internet videos (with the battle between Jesus and Santa, or Jesus and Frosty) to the long-running TV series taking on Scientology, Mormonism, Catholicism, and a variety of others.

Last but certainly not least, there is Monty Python, with the Life of Brian and certain parts of The Meaning of Life, such as "Every Sperm is Sacred" from the skit, "Miracle of Life Part II." Blasphemy? I don't think so. Growing up, my Catholic cousins got just as many laughs out of this as I did; I don't think there's any other sane or rational way to exist in an organized religion than being able to laugh.