Sure - Religion and Politics (philosphy too) attract more flame than other topics.

But I suggest that the primary cause of "flame" is a disrespect for the other's point of view and letting it be known - which hurt feelings and is to be avoided - hense the Rules, which only ameliorates the problem.

The real answer is to foster a gentlemany attitude to oneanother on the UT forum, the hard-working Moderators providing counsel, when necessary, or harsher penalties for those who just will not act properly.

I think that this is how it works at the moment.