Is BDSM a religion?

[fetishdj]

Hmmm.... certainly a rather interesting debate here...

If we take a moment to step back and consider this from an intellectual viewpoint rather than an emotional one, I find this a fascinating discussion. From what I can gather from a quick skim read, we have two main arguments:

1) That the elements of BDSM which refer to 'worship' of an individual such as a Master or Mistress compounded with the elements of ecstatic ritual incorporated into the practises (sub and domspace) which are similar to those seen in some shamanic rituals (especially those that involve pain to create a trance state) could be evidence to compare BDSM a religion.

2) The opposing view that the essential lack of a central belief in a spiritual entity combined with several other factors which essentially come down to the 'BDSM is just like golf' argument which claim it essentially is not... Within this may well be the 'calling anything else a religion other than 'my' religion is heresy' argument though that could be a third one and one which is too primed with contention to possibly be safe...

So, is anyone prepared to debate these sensibly and with constructive argument? Would it be better to move this to the religion and philosophy thread?

[Veronika]

Hmmm.... certainly a rather interesting debate here...

I'm glad you think so too!