Oh, I agree completely. So many people use religion to justify their own prejudices, as well (like with homosexuality). I think basically what the Bible comes down to is: treat other people the way you want them to treat you, i.e. with respect, and have respect for weaker beings than yourself like animals.

But again - I'm probably too basic/simple.

I always instantly rebel when people tell me I should do stuff "just because". It gives me a reason to NOT want to do that.