Rationality(?)

This last week in my Contemporary Art class we were listening to student presentations on various artists that pertain to this time period. One particular presentation struck a cord with me... not because I admired the artist's work (completely the opposite, I didn't find him to be credible at all). And, I apologize because I don't even remember this artist's name. EDIT: I looked it up, the artist is Anthony Falbo. It's (still) not important, not really. Instead, I am more interested in the reasons behind the student's decision to present on Falbo.

It's pretty safe to say he paints images with a religious context. They're mostly poorly done cubist-esque images of Bible stories. And we find out that the student presenting the work is very religious (apart of some new aged Christian sect that claims tolerance and love for everyone, etc.) However, she isn't presenting Falbo's work because she likes it... no. Actually, while she's in front of the class, she is fuming. And it's all because of this:

Adam and Steve

It's pretty funny. I think the image in question is probably one of the only remotely successful pieces he has. Maybe it's because the image is eliciting such a strong reaction? Maybe it has to do with my overwhelming contempt for Christianity? Who knows.

So, she goes through her presentation and when she's done she asks the class if we wanted to share our opinions on the matter. And right there a red flag goes up in my mind because she isn't really asking for an opinion out of curiosity. I can hear it in her voice, in the way it's slightly shaky. No, she's pissed and she's looking for others to either be outraged with her or nothing at all. Naturally, to avoid a shit show that would undoubtedly ensue, I keep my mouth shut.

But this whole thing leads me to my ultimate... point? Question? Something, I'm not sure. I just can't understand why people will constantly bring up the topic of religion and say that they'd like to discuss it objectively. Clearly, that is not the case 98% of the time. People instantly get defensive. Then they get offensive and begin attacking everything you say. There is no rationality in any conversation concerning religion.

Is it even possible to have a rational debate over something so completely irrational? Maybe it will forever be an oxymoron.... a rational religious debate. Who knows?

Or maybe it's all me. Am I being irrational? I've asked myself that a number of times. Still haven't come to a conclusion. OH well, point is- if anyone would like to try discussing religion rationally with me, I'd love the opportunity :)

Ps- Here's a link to Falbo's website if you're interested. Please enjoy the 70s porno music and weird tooth art as well.