[sirrocco]

> anyone is free to decide whether they follow the teachings of said religion or not

Everyone that has enough mental power to escape the mantra of " you are going to hell and burn for all eternity ". Many, many people truly believe that they are going to hell for the use of a condom so they are not as free as you think. They will be punished if they don't obey. That's how religion works, do what we say or you will get eternal punishment in a fiery pit. (but as George Carlin said .... god loves you)