So why is Dawkins not all worked up about all the other common forms of arbitrary identity that are "forced" upon (planted in) children, usually unwittingly, by their parents? Why does only religious programming concern him? Do I see a gigantic chip resting on Mr Dawkin's shoulder...or is that just a very large parrot or a huge piece of birdshit? ;-D

To echo Stringsinger. Dawkins comes from a scientific background in genetics and evolution. He sees the attack by religion, as exemplified by the groundswell anti-evolution and pro-creationist movement in the US, and his riposte to that derives from his specialism (and, of course, his own atheism). It ill behoves anyone to criticise him for not blasting out at every other kind of related injustice. You don't criticise Beethoven for not writing rock and roll and you don't criticise Bob Marley for not writing string trios. Critics of Dawkins should actually read the book (and watch his documentaries and YouTube forays even). You'll find a man who is cool, measured and reasoned in his approach, even if you still end up violently disagreeing with him. Don't fall into the trap that commonly ensnares religious people who are confronted with argument, that those who disagree have chips on their shoulders or are rabid, militant ex-Christians. It's tiresome and it's pretty lame. And usually not true.