Religion: Good for the individual. Bad for the world. An opinion.
I don't think it can be denied that religion provides much good to the individual. Those who suffer from addictions, the effects of abuse and loss of loved ones are strengthened and comforted by the religions of the world. Many are comforted by the knowledge that there is more to life than what we see. That helps them deal with the daily trails and tribulations that can all too often discourage us. I don't dispute that. Religions also provide a framework of community that helps people come together to help each other. One need only look to your local churches to find food banks, clothing drives and other altruistic community activities that benefit your less fortunate neighbors. This also is hard to ignore or speak ill of. However, when multiplied by millions or billions of people, certain tenants of religion which are built into the doctrine can become toxic. An analogy… In the late 80s computer technology in the investment industry had given some brokers an edge over their competition. Complicated algorithms would determine the best time to buy and sell stocks. However, as more and more firms got the software the computer systems began to synchronize and it eventually led to wild fluctuations in the market bringing on an automated sell off and the crash of October 19, 1987. See this article for more… It wasn't the only reason for the crash and it's an imperfect analogy, but I think it illustrates my point that small advantages for a few can add up to large problems for many. It's the same with religion. When multiplied by millions you inevitably get conflict between religions and even sub-cults of various religions because of the very nature of elements within the doctrine. These elements are inherent in any successful religion. Here are what I think are the top 5 elements of dogmatic religion that, when multiplied, have created conflict in the world. I don't think I need to provide examples of the kinds of conflicts these elements have created. We are sadly all too familiar with them. 1. The "one true" religion. - This assertion is necessary for religion in order for it to create a cohesive community. Believers must believe that they have found the best possible faith among the many that exist in order for them to commit completely to it. However, when expanded to the world at large it also tends to pit the religion against all others. [More . . . ]