what are the psychological reasons for people embracing religion?

Question

Answers from clear thinking individuals please. Scientific explanation please no religious mumbo jumbo.

Answer 1

This book explains why perfectly:

http://www.amazon.com/Demon-Haunted-World-Science-Candle-Dark/dp/0345409469

It's "The Demon Haunted World" by Carl Sagan.

Read about it at Wikipedia:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Demon-Haunted_World

Answer 2

For We assuredly sent amongst every People a messenger, (with the Command), "Serve Allah, and eschew Evil": of the People were some whom Allah guided, and some on whom error became inevitably (established). So travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who denied (the Truth). (Quran, 16:36)

Verily We have sent thee in truth, as a bearer of glad tidings, a warner: and there never was a people, without a warner having lived among them (in the past). (Qur'an, 35:24)

Answer 3

It gives them comfort and hope that there is a better place to go to after you die. Some people don't have the strength to endure this belief, it's hard for them to cope with the fact that once you die, that's it, you're gone.
It also keeps many of them in check. Apparently the laws of man are not good enough so they need some big eye in the sky looking down on their every move and threating them with fire and brimstone for all eternity. It's hard for them to be good on their own.

Answer 4

people find comfort in think that someone is "in a better place" and other such hope that religion gives in a time of tragedy. Knowing that "jesus will forgive you" for whatever sins u commit and etc. gives people comfort.

you see, people need something to have hope in if they have none themself

also, people are naturally curious beings, and we want answers for things. and since we don't have answers for everything we have questions for, we make them up with religion and the power of a "higher being" or god.

Answer 5

It's human nature to believe in a higher power. The evidence is proven among every culture from every era or man. It's called the NIKE logic.... we Just Do It

Answer 6

PSychological? well does an orphan not wonder where he comes from? I think it is more simple minded not to ever wonder or think of things beyond earthly life. Now if your looking for psychological reasoning like lack of this or that who knows.

Answer 7

It is generally poor self image. They do not feel they are worthwhile in and of themselves so they create a fantasy to give them that sense of self worth.

Answer 8

It helps them deal with mortality, if you believe in a afterlife, you wont go crazy thinking about death.