But I draw the line when ANYONE tells me that their belief system is better than mine,
Isn't that close to multiculturalism? Can't we say for instance that being a practicing Presbyterian is better than being a Pol Pot follower? A devout Buddhist better than being a Nazi. A productive agnostic better than being a serial killer? A stumble down drunk better than a terrorist suicide bomber?
that they are more moral than I am because they are a member of a religion,
Ultimately this is a claim of all religions. Follow these rule to be better and more moral. If you didn't believe that why would you be a believer and follower?
or when anyone gives me the "I'm right, you're wrong" line.
Are you objecting to them saying it or believing it? Saying it is rude, and perhaps obnoxious. Believing it is a part of the human condition. I prefer a gentle scepticism, myself, but that is for men of academic temperment. Men of action tend to believe they are right.
I chaulk much of "Bush hatred" up to academics hating the action-oriented stance of Bush, which is (to some extent I believe, though not to the extreme parody level promoted by idiots like the editors at the NY Times) based on his firm beliefs, including religious beliefs.
Isn't that close to multiculturalism?
No...
Can't we say for instance that being a practicing Presbyterian is better than being a Pol Pot follower? A devout Buddhist better than being a Nazi. A productive agnostic better than being a serial killer? A stumble down drunk better than a terrorist suicide bomber?
I'm not saying all belief systems are equal. I'm saying that I believe mine is at least as moral and valid as any out there. I have my belief system and morals that I have reasons for believing in. I'm willing to discuss and even change my beliefs, but not when I'm being condescended to by someone who is convinced they have the monopoly on truth.
Ultimately this is a claim of all religions. Follow these rule to be better and more moral. If you didn't believe that why would you be a believer and follower?
Sure. But I don't believe that religion is necessary to have morals. I believe I am leading a moral life without any religion. Some religions believe that it is possible to be moral and not doomed to damnation even if you aren't a member of their religion. Others don't. I have a problem with any religious that would consider me less moral purely because of my religous beliefs or lack thereof.
or when anyone gives me the "I'm right, you're wrong" line.
Are you objecting to them saying it or believing it?
Good question. I'm objecting to those who assert it dogmatically. Of course everyone believes they are right, and I expect people to be able to defend their positions. I have a problem with people who will say words to the effect of, "You don't believe what I believe, therefore, ipso facto, you are wrong and I am right."