Why Flat Earthers Struggle to Organize as a Religion

The flat Earth belief has gained a substantial following in recent years, leading some to wonder why this community doesn't simply organize as a religion to gain the protection and respect that comes with official recognition. In this article, we explore why the flat Earth community faces significant challenges in this endeavor and why attempts to do so might actually backfire.

What Privileges Are We Talking About?

There are several misconceptions about the privileges that flat Earthers could gain by classifying their belief as a religion. For example, some might assume that if flat Earth were recognized as a religion, the following benefits could be obtained:

Legality of the belief itself Prohibition of discrimination against flat Earth believers Teaching of flat Earth in educational institutions

However, several legal and practical barriers stand in the way of these aspirations.

Legality of the Belief

Let's address the first point: can the government pass laws banning people from believing in a flat Earth? The answer is clearly no. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution and similar principles in other countries protect the right to freedom of belief. It is practically impossible for the government to outlaw particular beliefs.

Anti-Discrimination Protection

The second point, concerning the protection against discrimination, is more complex. However, anti-discrimination laws across the globe already cover a wide range of protected characteristics, including religion. This means that flat Earth beliefs are already protected in many jurisdictions. The issue is not so much about adding them as a new protected characteristic, but rather ensuring that current laws are effectively enforced without regard to the specific belief system involved.

Teaching in Schools

A common misconception is that being recognized as a religion would enable flat Earth believers to teach their beliefs in educational institutions. This notion is incorrect under the principle of separation of church and state. Public schools, for example, must be neutral and must not promote any particular religion or belief system. Therefore, even if flat Earth were recognized as a religion, it would still be illegal to include it in the curriculum.

Legal Definitions and Recognition

In the United States, a religious organization must meet specific criteria under tax law, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) criteria for 501(c)(3) status. But it’s not just about meeting the bureaucratic requirements; the very concept of a "religion" is a complex legal construct that goes beyond mere belief. The criteria for establishing a religion include, but are not limited to:

A formal structure with organizational documents and bylaws A belief in a higher purpose or deity A set of moral or ethical principles A community of adherents who follow these principles

Attempting to organize flat Earth believers as a religion based on a shared belief system might seem logical, but in reality, it would require a level of structure and organization that the current movement lacks. Most flat Earthers are not organized in a way that aligns with traditional religious institutions. They often exist in fragmented online communities without a clear hierarchy or set of rules.

Mockery and Belittlement

Many flat Earthers recognize that even if they were recognized as a religion, they would still face mockery and belittlement from the broader scientific and rational community. This point is illustrated by the harsh criticisms and ridicule meted out to followers of extremist religious movements, such as Islam, in various online forums.

Internet Mockery and Cynicism

The internet is often a breeding ground for mockery and derision, irrespective of the underlying belief system. If flat Earthers were to form a religion, they would likely attract even more skepticism and derision. Instead of gaining credibility, such an organization might consolidate the negative perceptions and ridicule it already faces.

Conclusion

Organizing as a religion is not a straightforward solution for flat Earthers hoping to gain legitimate recognition and protection. Legal and practical barriers, combined with the potential for increased ridicule, make this approach less than ideal. Flat Earthers would be better served by focusing on fostering a community of like-minded individuals, engaging with the broader scientific community, and addressing the criticisms of their belief system in a rational and evidence-based manner.

References

The information in this article is based on U.S. law and the general principles of religious recognition and protection under the law. Readers should consult legal experts for specific advice applicable to their jurisdictions.