Religion, a lazy man's way of answering lifes biggest questions?
 

I thank religion for all it has done for humanity since time immemorial, but I temper the question that it is obsolete in the world of today, especially in the eyes of those who think like me. Religion was necessary for humanity for so long, we hadn't come far enough to tackle mysteries on our own so we substituted philosophy for religion.

I truly believe that to move successfully into the world of tomorrow we must unbound ourselves from the shackles of religion that so restricts our thinking. The biggest questions that humanity faces must be tackled with an iron will of logic and higher thought, only then can we enjoy a utopia that we can all be at peace with.

Any reason we can't do both?

Organized religion? Maybe, at least as long as it keeps trying to answer the "Who, What, When, Where, and How" questions. It might still have some valuable to answer "Why," though, at least from a strictly philosophical perspective. But seriously, going to the Bible or Quran or Torah or Upanishad to explain how the universe came into being or how man rose on Earth is just luddism IMO. Put down the good book and pick up a damn science book already. If you have any existential or philosophical questions, then you can use your holy book.

Non-religious spirituality? No, I think it will always be valuable. It's peaceful (ever heard of an animist suicide bomber?), and it really doesn't interfere with science, and in fact, can sometimes spur scientific study (such as the study of psi). I'd put Buddhism, Wicca, and Baha'i in this category as well, they are non-evangelical and have a very Que Sera Sera outlook on life. Spirituality basically sticks to the existential/philosophical "why," and lets science handle many of the more quantitative/qualitative questions. Plus, no insane religious law. All meat, no filler.

And with that, I am now leaving this thread, because I'm sure this religious debate will devolve into a hellfire flamewar like all the others.

Is this really a wise topic to start?

I mean, religious debate is fine. But this discussion has an implication that not too many agree with in the first place... and for good reason, not just "ignorance".

Delete this post while you still can.

Did you really think this was a good idea?...