Loading... Has Religion Benefited Society as a Whole Over the Ages or Has it Done More Harm than Good?

From my studies and observations, as well as those of my husband (who, incidentally, is a licensed minister) religion, overall, has done far more harm than good over the centuries.

The exact details and reasons why are too long to explain here, or even in a hub. It would take an entire book.

However, suffice it to say that hubby is a NON-PRACTICING minster, precisely BECAUSE of what he learned in seminary school!

I would say that religion has been very helpful in developing structures for our society. It introduces a system of law, policemen, punishments and something to strive for in life. While that was useful in the past, when governments were struggling or non-existent, they aren't as useful now. In the modern age, religion seems to be holding back progress. Each time a new social right or scientific discovery is made, it seems to be religion that is pushing against it. It can still have value to the individual, but as a whole it isn't helping much anymore.

Easily answered. Harm. A means on controlling the masses into fearing said outcomes that have no evidence of being possible or even true. Deluded and misinformed people tend to fall back on religion and "God" instead of taking a more logical and rational approach to things.

I expect vote downs, because as we all know, we are not allow to question religion, why? because we just aren't.

Implying a death penalty to one who opposes a set of rules is in my mind unacceptable. It preaches separation, hate, dependency and fear. (all religions)

Everybody needs something to believe in. The problem is when people become fanatics. In this case, the Catholic church has done a lot of harm to society. Catholics preach against contraceptives. So, we end up with over-populated countries all over the world. People think it is a sin to wear condoms or use birth control because of what the Catholic church preaches. Therefore, people bring children into the world that they cannot afford to feed. In this example, religion has done and continues to do a great disservice to the world.

R

Religion is guideline to live your life peacefully and successfully but alas these peaceful guidelines were used in all ages to destroy peace. Religion never done any harm but the sick followers are the problem in every religion.

This is a remarkably complicated question - and I am two minds about it. There are so many beautiful works of art and music, and so many acts of kindness, that have come from faith that I have a hard time completely dismissing it. Yet, when I think of Muslims who were willing to send their children out into mine fields to clear them of danger, and of the children who died, I can't help but think that religion, or perhaps the way it is interpreted by people, is both dangerous and hateful, making it more harmful than helpful in the long run.

More harm than good! To me religion creates separatism while we all come here the same and will leave the same and have the same necessities to live. Air food and water. I think religion makes us look down on each other when we all are one.