Faith-based belief systems and organized religions have shaped – and for many continue to shape – how we frame ideas and communicate ethics and values. Witty detects antisemitism and anti-muslim language but also points out more subtle faith-based expressions at odds with accepting religious diversity.

By using stories and pictures in our heads to share ideas, religions have played a vital role in forming and cultivating stereotypes. Even people who don’t believe or are intensely private about their faith use language shaped by the religions that dominate the culture they live in.