"They have every right to mock those ..."...etc.

What an interesting formulation. I suppose anyone has a 'right' to mock anyone else whom they believe to be careless or ignorant about a subject and who still "assume a position of authority" on it.
The question is: who are they hoping to convince with their mockery? Or failing that, who are they hoping to impress with their erudite superiority, couched in clever mockery?
I am all in favor of clearly and carefully arguing one's position... point by tedious point. I do think however, that if your opinion of a person and their opinion is so low that you have no respect for them... why bother? (Yes...I have met such people. I used to be active in the USA Civil Rights movement in the 60s & 70s. There were people I just didn't bother with due to a stubbornness based on hate and ignorance... I have also met people whose religious bent was to **inform** me that I was a sinner and was 'going to Hell'. I couldn't be bothered to 'mock' them.)

Religion is a special topic among the many that humans confront each other about. It DOES involve out entire recorded history and has affected almost every aspect of our struggles to come to terms with our very existence. It is extremely complicated, both sociologically and emotionally, and as such deserves more than just posturing.. from either side.

I will debate, discuss, argue, explain,..etc..when I am free & able .... but I will not 'mock' as long as the discussion remains basically cordial. Others who choose to exercise their "right" to ridicule and mock may as well do it in front a mirror, for all the good it does.