For what purpose do we need religion?

Answer 1

Some people need it. I for example do not need. Some people need it because of many possible reasons:
- They want to believe in something special.
- They think life goes beyond their control.
- They are clueless about nature and human history.
- They want to be controlled by supremebeing.
- They want to trust someone powerfull.
- They want to join to a big society or subculture.
- They want simple explanations to their questions.
- They want to be forgiven!
and so on... you name it.
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Answer 2

Religion started as the earliest form of government and political control. It put fear into the minds of those who would not obey the laws, beliefs, or rules of the church. Look at the Vatican it's a prime example of religious power.

Today's religion is different than that of historical past. People are more brain washed into believing in it. The fear of God and hell play a huge part in obtaining control over people. Which is what gave birth to Apocalyptic type religion (See the Book of Revelations) and maintains a strong hold over society. One thing that helps keep the ball rolling so to speak is the sense that we are living in the end of days. Armageddon as it's known which, speaks about the coming of the Anti-Christ and the war between Satan and God's kingdom. The church likes to keep people thinking that the "Rapture" is coming soon. Which plays into the hearts of people who want to live in a time that seems special. Something that has gone on throughout history in various forms.

Answer 3

I was going to say that we don't need religion. What we do need is a real relationship with the Great Spirit (God), and for the purpose of showing us the right way to live, so that at the end - death - we go home with Him.

But I like The Instigator's answer better. Give the award to him.

Answer 4

Nobody NEEDS it, it's just that some people like to belong to a group and prefer to be told what to think rather than struggle with thinking things thru themselves.

Also, some people like to learn all the buzz words of a religion like "Lord God Almighty," "beloved Holy Spirit," "Allah, peace be upon him," and "salam allahkum." It makes them feel cool like THEY know the words and others don't.

Still others do need religion in order to judge others and feel justified in doing so.

One more thing ... people like to blame their bad behavior on it being "God's word" or "Allah's word" while they've never even spoken to God or Allah!

All in all, when you look at it, they're all really stupid reasons.

Answer 5

religion ir for those that can't find guidance in their own reality using their own concept of reality and it's not a bad thing if this is the case. any religion that doesn't create guilt for being human can't be a bad religion.

all religions serve a purpose in guiding humanity where humanity cannot embrace the morals of goodness itself

Answer 6

We do not. All of the needs that religion seems to fill can be met through other means. Moral instruction, a meaningful life, spiritual fulfillment, all can be had without the burden of faith in the supernatural.

Answer 7

Not sure. Seeing as the European countries with the highest standards of living tend to include large numbers of atheists/agnostics, the answer eludes me.

People will probably continue to use religion for emotional reasons, to organize their behavior and nurture the myths of their ancestors.

Answer 8

This is an awkward question.. you need it to follow what your religion says it right and to be a better person in some way thats what i think

Answer 9

religion is only for people who need an excuse for why things happen, for example: why did a loved one die? well god said it was their time. most people cant except things for what they are, people die and that is what happens, bad things happen just because, someone wins the lotto, and says its because they believe in god and that god answered their prayers, well if thats true why dont i win the lotto? religion has no real purpose.

Answer 10

Everyone's reasons for believing are different. I think for alot of people though it's to give them purpose. So they don't feel so alone or like they're just wandering with no direction.