- Gerin oil
Gerin oil or geriniol is a fictional drug used as a device to criticize
religion in articles written byRichard Dawkins . The word is ananagram of "religion ".The first article, "Gerin Oil", [ [http://www.anst.uu.se/dla05000/Gerin%20Oil.html Gerin Oil] ] was published in an American secular humanism publication, "
Free Inquiry ", inDecember 2003 . It was popularised in an article titled "Opiate of the Masses". [ [http://www.prospect-magazine.co.uk/article_details.php?id=7036 Opiate of the Masses] ] It describes a dangerous legal drug "Gerin Oil" or "Geriniol." Dawkins blames its effects as being responsible for historic acts of violence such as theSeptember 11th attacks , massacres of native South Americans byconquistadors , and theSalem Witch Trials .According to Dawkins, users are often introduced to the drug at social gatherings such as weddings and funerals. In small amounts it is considered harmless, although its usage may increase over time. Medium usage of "Gerin Oil" is said to cause a disconnect with reality where users expect private wishes expressed to come true, often accompanied by spasmodic muscular movement or contraction. In large doses it is said to cause aural or visual hallucinations.
Dawkins also links its use to child mutilation, sexual prohibition, and the tendency to smile when convicted of mass murder.
References
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