2006-12-10 03:04:07 · 6 answers · asked by gasp 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
yes, it it's just like crack.
2006-12-10 03:05:28 · answer #1 · answered by renamed 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
You can see how it works if you observe, for example, the irrational routines some baseball players feel they must follow in order to get a "hit," etc. They have to wear a "special" hat, or put chewing gum in a "special" place, or cross themselves, etc. These superstitious actions are meant to be protective or enhancing.
If you now think of that same fellow regarding life in general, he becomes a parody of Pascal's wage-maker. It isn't that religious arguments make that much sense, it's just that you have to stack the odds in your favor. You'd have to be silly not to put that chewing gum under the water-cooler. If it doesn't work, nothing is lost. If it does, then hey! he's covered! It's the same thing with religion. Many "religious" people on this section put it in exactly those terms: "Why would you take that chance?!" they ask.
On the other hand, in certain cultural contexts, religions provide a significant forum for safe and satisfying social interaction. It fosters a community feeling that is difficult (or impossible) for some to achieve otherwise - and allows for the protected expression of general affection empathy for others. It can also be a place where individuals evaluate their own adherence to principles they hold dear.
This institutionalized aspect of religion is the central cultural form that meets some human needs. Even anti-religious thinkers like Karl Marx warned that the needs in question will seek satisfaction.
Summary: For most it is addictive. For many others it is at best an amusing example of one more irrational cultural formation.
2006-12-10 03:33:27 · answer #2 · answered by JAT 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Less of an addiction, more like a Slave trade. You get scared into it. You get threatened with damnation if you disobey the rules. You are forced to give up your money to support the Overlords. And in the end, you get nothing out of it.
2006-12-10 03:45:55 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Christianity is not a religion but reality.
Not addictive but a way of life, eternal life.
Christ is the bread of life.
Food for your spirit to pass from death unto life.
<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>
2006-12-10 03:06:39 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
It was said that religion is the opioid of the people.
2006-12-10 03:07:49 · answer #5 · answered by ? 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No. Nicotene is.
2006-12-10 03:07:13 · answer #6 · answered by Eva 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋