[rebel28]

I think the correct term to use in this case, is "When engineers start acting religiously..."

As a person doesn't need a religion, to act religious; I can be religious about canned goods or martial arts, or perhaps, engineering.

I do agree that using the term "religious people", while the meaning is understood, makes a generalised assumption about a larger group of people who do not all adhere to the imagined stereotype, and it casts them in a negative light.

I suppose that the point you're making is that zer0gravity used the term "religious people", and that seems to be acceptable to most people, few object to it; whereas "people of color" or any other term that is deemed unacceptable to make that kind of negative assumption about, would not be okay. And that's a rather big double-standard.

Regardless though, the meaning that zer0gravity was trying to convey, was clear and understood. I think taking up offence at zer0gravity's comment and use of the term "religious people" just detracts from the topic being discussed; and I highly doubt any ground will be crossed on the point you're trying to make; at least on this page and topic.