Tai Lo Chin ('Limits of civil public discourse', July 16) really struck a chord of agreement in me. If we continue to pursue the path of "politics of orthodox fundamentalism", we are in danger of destroying our country and its diverse culture.

This is because the politics of orthodox fundamentalism is based on absolute truths (the word of God). And in such a system the government may possess powers that cannot be refuted.

Even though we know and believe most religions promote justice and equality, we cannot factor out the possibility of someone of a more fanatical inclination ascending to power and abusing it for his/her own interest. History has proven this time and again.

In such an event, even the 'more-liberal' followers of the religion will be marginalised. Worst, the people of other belief will not be able to play a part in the governance of the country as they are deemed not qualified purely because of their different beliefs.

It is also my point of view that we are really far away from the development of an open society and are converging towards a closed one if the current development in grassroot politics gain a foothold. The opening up of discourse on certain issues between contributors and letter writers of malaysiakini is actually an indication (judging from some of the views written by some people of esteemed positions) of such convergence.