Is the concept of karma, or heavnely reward, innate in people?

Question

Regardless of what you believe about Karma, (the question isn't if you believe karma or heavenly reward is true), do you think that people natively come to the conclusion that there is some kind of reward for good behavior and punishment for bad behavior or is this just the influence of religion?

Answer 1

Er there generally is reward for good behaviour in any complex society and punishment for bad behaviour. It's the heaven bit thats disputed.

Answer 2

I don't think religion has anything to do with it. We know what is wrong and what is right, it's just a matter of listening to our higher self.
For example: if someone said "people make mistakes" we know he is right. but when someone said "people make mistakes, so just forget it" we know it's not right because we know mistake can happen and therefore can be repaired or at least we try to repair it. If it's not for the reward of doing the right thing, it will be just for peace of mind.
Thats what I think.

Answer 3

It may be as you say, but in my case testing & observation has established the validity of cause & effect. In college I got a science degree. Everything works by cause & effect. We are made of the elements of the periodic table, functioning in a physical universe, with the wild card of biology thrown in - all subject to cause & effect.
Religion is not required, just observation.

Peace,

;-)

Answer 4

Seek reward...avoid punishment.

If you take away Heaven and Hell...what would be left?
Would religion survive?

Answer 5

if heaven was innate in people wouldnt everyone have the same idea of heaven. this reward is taught to us therefore not innate.

Answer 6

I don't think so - I think it is a trait that forms later in life!@