religion, the placebo effect?

Question

Couldn't religion be perceived as a placebo effect?

Meaning, people who follow the bible and the word of God claim to be alleviated by their belief and trust in God, although with no cogent evidence of a Supreme Being couldn’t the advocate actually be eased by the expectations and faith that a forgiving God exists?

Couldn’t we just make God in a pill for depressed people?-joking

I anticipate a couple pissed off remarks

Answer 1

I think God in a pill would be great if it was possible.
but the truth is that god has helped me through some really hard times. He sent people to help us when we could not help ourselves. them did not know us but they came to where God had sent them.
would you call people coming up to you and saying, God told me to give this to you, a placebo?

Answer 2

People view religion from a much more narrow perspective than they used to. It has traditionally been the means through which people identified with their culture, their ancestors and gave meaning ot their lives, not just worshiping some all powerful father figure in the sky. For example: American worship of the founding fathers is consistent with traditional religious practices. Indeed, the way in which Republicans have mythologized Ronald Reagan is no different then how prior civilizations have treated their god kings.

Answer 3

there is no cogent evidence for or against the existence of god, but science would say that the burden of proof is on religion because of a claim they make on something that cannot be perceived by our senses or instrumentally. philosophically, however, there are some interesting arguments for god's existence (e.g. a discourse by socrates to the native boy). the fact that you're here in yahoo makes me wonder whether or not you have doubts and assuage them by having to argue your point, but perhaps your belief system is strong. i don't know. do you?

Answer 4

Let me start by saying that I totally agree with you. I am agnostic and have never understood why people do believe in god. But the thing about placebos is that it actually does make some people feel better, just because it changes their psyche. If people believe god is helping them, than he is.

Answer 5

In a way, you are right. There is a great deception that happened and is continuing to happen in the teachings till these present generation. Unless the truth will really surface, you can perceive it the way you said it.

Answer 6

There is too much evidence for God. The bible has historical, geographical, archaeological and scientific proof if you care to research it. "The Signature of God" by Grant Jeffrey is one such excellent reference book.

And alleviated from what? From knowing why I am here, from the love of my creator, from the hope and joy He brings me???

Answer 7

Studies show that people who are very religious outlive non-religious people by several decades. do to less stress, strong social connections and a healthier life-style. Even if I didnt believe in God, another 30 years of life is worth it.

Answer 8

Nope, God is the real deal. But don't take my word for it, pray to Him and ask Him if He is real. If He does not answer your prayer, then you are right. However, if He does answer your prayer, and He does make Himself real to you, then hold on for the ride of your life.

Answer 9

Do you know of a placebo that performs miracles?

Answer 10

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. And true wisdom comes from Him alone.