Does announcing your religious affiliation affect your Hub traffic?

1. 76

   Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years ago

   Does announcing your religious affiliation affect your Hub traffic?
   
   Does airing our religious beliefs turn people away if it is different from their own?
   I am afraid to get into any religious conversations because I don't want to be excluded from any side. I want to hear and participate in discussions from every angle.

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2. 84

   TIMETRAVELER2posted 11 years ago

   I believe announcing your religion could definitely affect your traffic, but see no reason for doing so.
   
   Religion is a hot button topic and always has been.  Why open yourself up to problems.  Do you walk into your job and publicly announce your religious beliefs?  This is no different.
   
   I don't need to know what you believe in order to be able to enjoy your work and pass it on to others.

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   1. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      It’s not that I’m trying to announce my religious affiliation, but I don’t know how to get into a hub conversation that does, without implicating myself, because assumptions will be made. I just want to be involved in what I believe to be a good hub.

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3. 92

   peeplesposted 11 years ago

   There can be an impact on hubber views. That is why I have multiple accounts on here. This is my primary account where I say what I think. This is not like the real world. Religion is brought up constantly. For me, my lack of belief is a big no no in both my field of work and my town. If people knew I was an atheist I would likely lose business. There are only two places I get to be myself and that's my home and the internet. So I express my views while I can. I speak on religion often. However I never go out of my way to attack others for their personal beliefs. I am not one of the internet atheist trolls who goes around demanding others to prove me wrong. I do ask tons of questions and those can annoy some believers. Overall though I have found that so long as you don't go out of your way to insult entire groups of people you should be for the most part okay. I have tons of Christian followers and some of other religions. In an ideal world everyone wouldn't be bothered by others not sharing their views or being just like them. Sadly we don't live in an ideal world. There will always be those who will stay away from your work because they disagree with you.

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   1. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      I usually try to avoid religion conversations in general because I know it’s such a touchy topic. Yet there are several hubs that I’ve found to reference religion though it's not the main theme. I don't want to agree or disagree and then be "marked"

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   2. 92

      peeplesposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      A second account is always an option! Then you can comment worry free!

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   3. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for the advice and I really appreicate your openness to discuss your religious beliefs for my benefit, despite potential judgment. (Honestly, I don't know if I have enough I want to say about it to dedicate an entire profile to it :-)..

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   4. 0

      Larry Wallposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      My father taught me that yu cannot sit on the fence. If you want to participate, and voice your views, you may offend some. You may gain followers. Sometimes the middle path is the easiest but not the best way to go. Good luck.

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   5. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Larry,
      You're right and I know you are. I am very outspoken about my thoughts and opinions on most issues, But religion is one that I know too little about to jump on anyone's side. I see valid points made all the time on every side. More than 2 side

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4. 77

   calynbanaposted 11 years ago

   I have made my beliefs as a Christian pretty clear and it has actually brought my views up. I find that having any controversial conversation interests people in you and your view. Religion is one of those subjects that draws attention. Whether it is drawing people of a similar opinion looking for affirmation, or people of different views looking to scoff, or most commonly people who are simply curious about what you think and why you are so bold whatever the reason there will be readers.
   
   Many of my followers found me through my religion debates on the forums and answers. Not to mention no matter what your beliefs you can often find a tighter community within the hub community.
   
   Mind you I also ended up with some people who did not agree with me who went through my hubs leaving  unpleasant comments, but nothing a sense of humor, and a kind word cannot fix, or at least overlook.
   
   Be honest about what you believe, and don't worry what other people think. If you are honest and transparent in your conversations and have well written hubs your traffic will be fine.

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   1. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks. I don't hide anything when asked, but I have been involved in heated conversations where people get extremely offended with other's and their beliefs, I'm almost afraid to disscuss it because I don't want to be offensive to anyone or any view

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   2. 77

      calynbanaposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Your beliefs should not offend others. It is what you believe. It they are offended perhaps they are not entirely secure in their own beliefs and need to do some soul searching. I know what you mean about heated debates though haha it can be rough

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   3. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks, I really appreicate it. I feel that I'm missing out on good conversations, but I don't think it's fair that someone says; "oh she's a believer" or "oh she's not" and then cast them aside if different from their own. I want to hear everyone

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   4. 77

      calynbanaposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      It happens all the time, but if you keep talking to people in love and respect and show that you are not just following a blind faith then people eventually stop trying to shove you into a neat little labeled box.

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   5. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Ha, thanks. Honestly, I wish it were a little more "cut and dry",  honestly, I have heard really good debates in so many areas, not to mention my Bachelor course that was solely based on 12 different "Worldviews". Can't I see more than one point?

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5. 77

   JEDIJESSICUHposted 11 years ago

   I never noticed any drastic change in my hub traffic because of my religion. I'm not sure I boldly mentioned it though. I didn't write a hub with the title "I'M A CHRISTIAN AND YOU'RE ALL SINNERS". Because frankly, that would be the only reason I would stop visiting someone's page and hubs.
   
   My beliefs are my beliefs. If I'm not shoving them down your throat or throwing them in your face, why should you care?

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   1. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks. If I agree with a "believer" on one issue, some "non-believers" cast me aside. If I agree with a "non-believer" on another issue, some "believers" cast me aside. I mean in life, not HP, but that is why I ask because I don't want that here.

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6. 78

   jlparkposted 11 years ago

   I shouldn't think so.
   Doesn't bother me, I'll read anything!
   I tend to write on anything, but mostly focus lately on things that personally affect me - so the SS marriage stuff, and homosexuality in the Bible etc....they aren't designed to get views, or make money, they're designed for me to get my point across, and get it out of my head really!...and spark up discussion with others.
   
   I'm into reading hubs about other religions, because I like to learn about it.
   Those who you may lose - weren't worth it anyway, if that is all it takes to lose them.

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   1. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      jlpark,
      Awesome, that's the kind of attitude I wish everyone had. I don't want to exclude people that I find interesting because they have a particular belief nor do I want to be excluded. Birds of a feather flock together. :-)

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   2. 78

      jlparkposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Cantu - I'm reminded of something that Dr Seuss and my father used to tell me - "those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind"

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      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      jpark,
      Thanks for the early morning smile; it's not every day that I get to live by the words of Dr. Seuss. Good advice. ;-)

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7. 63

   Fastianposted 11 years ago

   So far as you respect beliefs of others you shouldn't worry. Besides if your hub traffic comes from search engines readers would be interested in information they've  searched not your beliefs!

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   1. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Fastian,
      I give everyone respect, despite their views and opinions. I'm not so worried about traffic as much as I just don't want to be categorized in any particular kind of group. I enjoy all views and different kinds of people. I want the same.

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   2. 63

      Fastianposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Jlpark gave an excellent answer. Go ahead and do whatever you like. Don't worry about those who value trivial things and let them go away. And as I said traffic will not be affected that much in my opinion.

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   3. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Fastian,
      Thanks and I agree. At the least, I appreciate the support and the feeling that "it'll be okay", regardless.

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8. 36

   wqaindiaposted 11 years ago

   When I decided to post this response I thought that there should be no reason that religious affiliation should affect the Hub Traffic. I think HP is global irrespective of caste and creed, religion or nationality. But after reading the other's point of view I am reminded of the old saying "When in Rome, Do as the Romans do".

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   1. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      wqaindia,
      You bring up a good point. I don't care what peoples' beliefs are as long as they aren't criticizing mine. Some people like it their way or no way. I don't know why we have to fit in any group. I want to communicate with people of all kinds

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9. 97

   chef-de-jourposted 11 years ago

   The answer to your question is yes, and no! If you announce your religious views in a hub or here in answers then it's logical to assume that some will be offended and not want to know you again, others not, and still others who might feel aggrieved yet see reason in the end. Generally speaking I think people are pretty tolerant here on HP, although there are one or two who voice strong opinion when it comes to all things biblical!
   
   I'm not one of those. I like to think I can add a touch of cool philosophy to proceedings!!
   
   You're right, religion does tend to get people going in the wrong direction sometimes and it's a challenge trying to debate/reason with those who, it might be construed, follow certain old testament guidelines for no apparent reason other than faith. Fair enough, that's the prerogative of each and every person alive and I would never come between a believer and their creed or faith simply for the sake of stirring things up! I simply leave them to it, but I do argue my corner if I feel I need to. The last time I did this if I recall was when I asked a question about Death Row, which hit a raw nerve!
   
   You should feel 'safe' debating religious subjects on HP because it is a universal sort of site - many different types create here - and I'd like to think that the majority would not ostracise you if they found you were a believer or non-believer.
   
   As long as your hubs are of high quality and your sense of community sound I can't see any reason why you shouldn't be successful and join in any discussion if you feel can contribute positively.

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   1. 76

      Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      chef-de-jour,
      I really appreciate your attitude on the subject. I'm kind of one of those "everybody's buddy" kind of people and I don't want to feel like I have to be placed on a "side".

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10. 0

    JThomp42posted 11 years ago

    I wouldn't say it has ever affected my hub traffic, but my religious views have caused quite a bit of debate at times. In which I let myself get dragged into because some do come on the attack. I try my best just to brush it off, but their is a fine line in doing so and professing one's love for God. Which I am a Child of God saved by his grace, through the salvation of his son Jesus Christ.

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    1. 76

       Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       JThomp42,
       Thanks. I believe what I believe but I don't want it to mark me as any kind of a certain person. Just because I do believe or don't believe in what other's do, shouldn't mean I'm not worthy of participating in any/all conversations.

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       JThomp42posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I totally agree with you!

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11. 0

    Larry Wallposted 11 years ago

    I have written hubs about being a Catholic and in trying to explain the beliefs of my church attracted a large number of replies. I do not know if I gain or lost any followers. The numbers on your profile page are not accurate. I have found two of my followers have been banned, but they are still listed.
    
    I have probably lost more followers because of my views on reasonable gun regulations than I have over religion. .

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    1. 76

       Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Larry,
       That might be true about the gun related issues, which I have found myself in quite the few heated debates over. Quite frankly, I'd be just as interested to hear your points of views as the, let's say, Atheists, to better understand thoughts

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    2. 0

       Larry Wallposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I am not exactly sure what you are seeking. My Catholic hub was to clear up some incorrect assumptions. I support greater gun control--posted the main points on another questions. Atheists are missing something, but they are entitled to their beliefs

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    3. 76

       Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Sorry, I was speaking about 2 different things. I was saying that while I fear talking about religion because I don't want to offend any group, I openly debate gun-control issues. Religion: I want to understand how people arrive at their beliefs.

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       Larry Wallposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       If your comments are presented in a manner that seeks to inform or even defend but does not deny a person the right to his beliefs, be it religion or gun control, you will be doing the best you can. Just be willing to be candid with your own beliefs.

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    5. 76

       Cantuhearmescreamposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Too be honest, I think I'm at a bit of a crossroads; how I was raised and how I really feel. I know what I "should" feel and what I "want" to feel, but I want to be responsible for those feelings. I have a lot of WHY questions & they don't sit we

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