Letter: Dawkins lets down the case for science

Sir: Richard Dawkins refers to the respect "always bestowed on religious prejudice, but no other kind of prejudice". Surely one other type of conviction enjoys similar respect, namely the choice of marriage partner.

It is not normally acceptable to say: "Why did you marry that dreadful man/woman?" Both religious faith and choice of partner are strongly felt personal convictions, not susceptible to rational analysis, but giving great satisfaction and comfort to some people.

However, if the major religions are going to return to a more militant stance, seeking to influence policies which impact on the agnostic majority, they can no longer expect to enjoy this tolerant respect.

MALCOLM LAURENCE

Richmond, Surrey