The ichthus symbol functions in a similar way to what it did in the times of the Roman persecution, being that it identifies Christians to each other. The early Christians were subjected to systematic torture and cruel forms of execution, such as being fed to rabid dogs, lions, and other animals. With this in mind and as someone sensitive to all forms of religious belief, I take offense at the darwin fish because it is a mockery of the pain, suffering, and humiliation of the thousands of Christians who endured these horrible acts for what they sincerely believed. Something that is troubling is the fact that there would probably be some outcry if other religious symbols such as the om symbol or the dharma wheel were made fun of.