Religion
In reply to the discussion: The two big things I think religion provides that secularism does not. [View all]Phillip McCleod
(1,837 posts)and btw i don't think 'secularism' is the word you're looking for. secularists can be die-hard true-believers as easily as 'strident' atheists.. it's just the idea that church and state should forever remain separated by an inviolate wall. and that benefits *everyone*.
first point.. it is in my self-interest to act morally/ethically in that resolves cognitive dissonance. if i'm feeling uncomfortable because that homeless vet in a wheelchair is staring at me at the crosswalk, and i know i've got $2.78 in loose change that i do not need, it's in the best interest of my own mental health to resolve the moment of dissonance by helping out. or, i could go to some elaborate lengths to justify *not* giving him the money.. quite easy for a practitioner of the 'prosperity gospel'.. almost impossible for me.
my brain.. my *conscience* isn't wired that way. i do the right thing because not because it feels good, but because i've done the wrong thing before.. i've burned myself on that stove and that feels bad. i know better, because i know myself.
second point..
communities..
..are..
..OVER-RATED.
Q.E.D.