Any political ideology is a religion.
Not really.
Is it a religion to consider the options and come to a conclusion, then apply that conclusion to a basic template of action?
I don't think I worship my plan of actions. Maybe I do. But it seems much simpler to me than that.
Its just right and wrong, and I try to avoid the wrong. I'll admit, I respect
some aspects of it, like truth. Maybe even to the point of worshipfulness (if thats even a word) when I recognize it in others.
But it's those aspects I respect that bring people to the conclusion of agreement or disagreement with my political leanings, not the ideology itself. There are numerous times when I'll step off the line because of the fluidity of my beliefs. If I painted myself into a corner by thinking my ideologies were religious, I'd feel sinful. I don't condone theft, but I'll steal from the government if given half a chance, because I can steal from a thief with no remorse. I don't condone violence, but I'd kill a man if he did something wrong enough in my judgement to allow me to perform the act and get away with it.
I'm pretty good friends with a Marxist. I really find marxism a terrible philosophy. I'll renounce it all day long. But when that marxist has a nice big bag, I'll be the first one to say "From each according to his ability..." As a joke, of course, as I go pour myself a big 'ol Scotch from a damn nice assortment of liquor. And when I come back, the promise of "...To each according to his needs." has been fulfilled. Twice. Once in my hand with ice cubes jingling in an amber symphony of artful distillation, and once again on a coffee table awaiting my spark. And because I have been given that hospitality, if the shoe were on the other foot, I would reciprocate to the best of my ability.
With that in mind, it would appear I've renounced my own political religion, but have I? Am I unprincipled? Am I manipulative? Maybe I'm capitalizing on their political failings and worshiping at my own altar of coerciveness and greed.
Or maybe its all one big fucking joke, and I'm just living by my code of right and wrong, and they are too. There is no sin in living. Define your own sins, and avoid them. And should you unwittingly step across the lines of another mans codes, you'll be burned in martyrdom.