Some local academics are of the opinion that Ethics should be compulsory at school and religion(s) optional. They believe that Ethics would unite us.

However, the issue of Ethics versus Religions at schools should have been raised before the issue of Islam at schools cropped up. At present, pushing Ethics in place of the Catholic Religion could ignite a 'spark' to say the least because it would look as if Catholic Church Catechism is inferior and is pushed aside to accommodate the wishes of the Muslims and subsequent other religions. This could eventually give rise to heated debates, protests and so on. Doubtlessly, not all Christians would behave like the sacrificed lamb! Therefore, I do not think the approach of Ethics in place of religion at the moment would unite the different religions.

Moreover, who said that the proposed subject on Ethics (or moral values) would be accepted by all Muslims and other religions? Imagine we remove Catholic Religion from schools thinking that Ethics would solve the problem, because a 'brilliant' person said so.... Then, we find out that Ethics still does not appeal to Muslims! Why would this be so? Because what pertains to morally right conduct to us does not necessarily mean it is acceptable by Muslims and other religions. For example, for our society it is not morally wrong to be attracted to the same sex or to change your sex. Is this accepted by all Muslims? So, once again, as with my previous FB post on 'Islam alla Maltese', the proposal of Ethics as a one-for-all 'solution' to religions, needs to be first studied through a scientific approach by conducting a survey on a random representative sample of Muslims living in Malta. They have to find out whether pure Ethics (ie. ethics in its full capacity) is going to be accepted by Muslims and other religions. If Ethics is to be introduced in all schools instead of the Christian religion, then it is imperative that it is not moderated to suit the needs of those societies that have not adapted to the changing world!

This is not all. Please have the decency to see what Christians have to - - again through a questionnaire study. This simple thinking 'outside the box' is no rocket science.

Charles Micallef

Author of 'Critical analysis: a vital element in healthcare research'