Why Do So Many People Believe in Religions in the Name of God?

In today’s world, belief in a supreme being or higher power, often referred to as God, remains a significant phenomenon. However, delving into the reasons behind such belief reveals a complex interplay of various factors, including subconscious influences and cultural conditioning.

God as a Tool for Thankfulness and Blame

Many people view God as an excuse to be thankful for or to blame nature for various phenomena. God can manifest in several ways:

As your subconscious, which is essentially your grand controller, your higher self, or somebody or something outside of you. As a higher being with agency where you wish there were one.

Is God real? Is this a reality as real as hallucinations or optical illusions? Or is it simply how we perceive things with the tools and brain wiring we have inherited through our evolutionary journey?

The Basis of Human Beliefs

A wise barbarian once suggested that humans have a natural predisposition for spirituality, a trait artificially selected through evolution. Another barbarian, known for his scientific wisdom, believed that religion serves as a good substitute for parental guidance when parents are absent.

Until humanity reaches a Type 1 civilization, characterized by a high level of technological and societal advancement, we will continue to grapple with ignorance, bigotry, and other handicaps that give rise to false belief systems (FBS).

Divisive Beliefs and Religious Wars

Religion has historically divided people, with most wars being based on religious beliefs or conflicts. The need for something to believe in, especially among a large population, creates a reason for division.

Key Reasons for Belief in Gods and Religions

While many claim that the majority of people believe in gods and practice religions, data suggests otherwise. Only a small fraction of the population attends churches on any given Sunday, with less than 18% of Americans attending on Sundays and around 4% of Europeans practicing religions.

The primary reason for belief, in my view, is fear of death. The idea that one's "soul" will survive and reside in heaven provides a more comforting thought than the notion that one's body will decompose and the self will cease to exist in any form.

Enforced Childhood Brainwashing

Many individuals are indoctrinated with religious beliefs during childhood through brainwashing practices by parents and community members before they can critically think independently. This emphasizes the role of upbringing and cultural influence in shaping religious beliefs.

Conclusion

Belief in a supreme being or higher power is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon influenced by various factors. While fear of death plays a significant role, religious beliefs are often the result of childhood brainwashing and cultural conditioning. Understanding these factors can help us better comprehend the formation of religious beliefs in society.