Why do people believe in religion?

[Buranri]

It's never made sense to me. There's so much evidence against it, and so little reason, but people still fool themselves into thinking their religion is true. Is it brainwashing? A simple unwillingless to recognize that their entire belief system is false? What is it that produces people like Rick Santorum, who simply won't change?

Bonus points to anyone who posts from the point of view of those who used to be similarly religious and changed their mind.

[Genghis Khan]

yeah they're just really stupid i guess

[Jupiter]

wow, this thread is very negative.

i believe in things because it just makes sense to me. i don't choose to be my religion, i really don't. i can't choose what i believe, now can i?

i believe in what i believe. there's nothing i can do about it.

[Clawhammer]

I am not exactly religious myself, but it seems to me that it's a lot more worthwhile than otherwise. Religion is just as lacking of origin and just as confusing as "science." The question is not really so much one of science as it is of philosophy. If there is science, what reason is there? What reason to do anything? What purpose? "Whither, why, and whence?" If there's nothing else, might as well blow your brains out, because hate to tell you this, but the pleasures on this planet don't last, nor do we, and nothing's worth the trouble of this world. So honestly, looks to me like the people who believe in something are a damn sight better off. Sure, there's the idiots who claim religion, but actual faith seems to have done far more good than anything else has done or can do on this world.
If there really is nothing, might as well hope otherwise, even if it's not true, you'll enjoy yourself a lot more and make things better for others. And who can truly and certainly say that it is or isn't true? You choose.

[Sephtyan]

I can't choose what i believe, now can i?


Do you seriously think you can't choose what you believe in? That it is impossible to actively decide to start believing in something else?
I believe that Magic exists, not because there is evidence supporting it, or that I've had experiences with it, but due to the fact that I find it interesting and silly. I choose to believe in Magic, because my days would otherwise be a bit more boring.

[Jupiter]

Do you seriously think you can't choose what you believe in? That it is impossible to actively decide to start believing in something else?

and you can believe in magic? but i can't believe in god?

I believe that Magic exists, not because there is evidence supporting it, or that I've had experiences with it, but due to the fact that I find it interesting and silly. I choose to believe in Magic, because my days would otherwise be a bit more boring.

i have never had experiences with real magic, but i have with god. so, there ya go.

[Sephtyan]

And you can believe in magic? But I can't believe in god?

I don't ever remember saying you can't believe in God, or even that I think you're wrong. My problem was that you said that you can't choose what to believe in. My point was that, if I can actively choose what I believe in, why can't you?
I have never had experiences with real magic, but I have with god. so, there ya go.
I happy that you had positive experiences received from what you believe to be God. I don't know what it's like to rely on a higher power, much less to have things go my way as a cause of such.

P.S. I would appreciate it if you could capitalize things like "I" when referring to yourself, as well as the beginning letter of a sentence.

[Buranri]

That's the thing though - there's a very high chance this is just my personality, but why do you need to believe in that? You don't need a false idea to give meaning to your life. There's plenty of wonder in things that actually happen.

[Jupiter]

I don't ever remember saying you can't believe in God, or even that I think you're wrong. My problem was that you said that you can't choose what to believe in. My point was that, if I can actively choose what I believe in, why can't you?

I happy that you had positive experiences received from what you believe to be God. I don't know what it's like to rely on a higher power, much less to have things go my way as a cause of such.

P.S. I would appreciate it if you could capitalize things like "I" when referring to yourself, as well as the beginning letter of a sentence.


..."A"lright.

True, you never said that, but how about when things stack against magic not being true.
As for not being able to choose what you believe? There is a difference to "liking" and believing. For example, I cannot just simply believe that people live forever, nor can I choose anything else that I believe.

One last thing, I never said that you had to rely on one, nor did I mean to imply that. Oh, and I also don't wish that I followed religion sometimes, it would be a lot better doing certain things that are considered sins without the guilt of doing so. I don't like doing lent, but I feel as though as I really should do that as it's what God wants me to do.

I'm out, and this is just gonna get torn apart.

[GothicTsukiyomi]

Mostly because thats how they are raised

yeah they're just really stupid i guess
Thats a very ignorant comment you made sir.

[Skeptical Bear]

There are so many reasons why people turn to religion. Also, before I start, I think anyone can choose what they believe in. As long as you mind your business and don't shove it up one's ass and force them to convert. Now, one reason is to deal with reality obviously. You go to god to take something off your chest, ask for advice or vent. Another I think is to have purpose in life. Have motivation. That's all my opinion. I chose not to become religious because I don't believe there's a god(No offense to anyone) and I see myself having a relationship with a god.

[Mortal Coil]

OK, well before all the science appeared, religion was the most accurate and widely accepted belief. Now, people can be religious because of their upbringing or fear.
Not fear that the church will hang you for being a heretic, but fear that after you die nothing happens. Fear that the bad people in the world won't get to rot in hell and can only suffer while they're still alive. Fear that, since there's no God to punish wrongdoers, our world will descend into a state of anarchy (which I personally have NO problem with...)
That's my 2 cents anyway. I personally follow Judaism because I enjoy the people at Synagogue, the rabbi is nice, the food is awesome and because belief in some God gives my life a little more structure than I would have without that.

[Skeptical Bear]

I'm also sure that when humans first came to be, they would probably see many odd events, things in the sky, other stuff that were explainable and came to think that there was a god and started off from there. That's my thought.

[Jess]

I think it's because:

Explain things they don't understand (can vary, like in the olden days, diseases, natural disasters)
Give them someone to ask for hope, forgiveness, vent to


I have no problem with religious people. however when they start shoving it down other people's throats...and preaching...well I definitely cannot tolerate that whatsoever. Mainly super religious people that go God this God that.

[Sephtyan]

*Cracks knuckles* Here we go...

True, you never said that, but how about when things stack against magic not being true.
I know that Magic is probably just a farce. I know and accept the whole "Levitating-is-bullshit-there's-gravity-and-energy-conservation" thing. I understand science and mathematics, and accept that these two seem to be the language of the cosmos, not some weird, intangible thing that gives people super powers. It just makes my day more fun to think about shooting lightning from my fingertips.
As for not being able to choose what you believe? There is a difference to "liking" and believing. For example, I cannot just simply believe that people live forever, nor can I choose anything else that I believe.
Choosing to believe that people live forever when signs of death are everywhere is a pretty extreme example. What I meant by 'choosing' in what you believe would, for example, be choosing to believe that people have spirits, and that those spirits live on forever, or even to think it in a more abstract sense, as in that the spirits live forever in their loved ones hearts, rather than choosing to believe that when someone dies, their brain forever lacks the ability to produce bioelectricity, which means they can't think, thus they are officially just a collection of meat, bone, and cartilage.

One last thing, I never said that you had to rely on one, nor did I mean to imply that.
Nor did I say that one had to rely on a higher power. What I meant [and I apologize for wording it poorly, so as to cause a misunderstanding] was that I don't know the feeling of having what one might call an omnipotent 'friend'. I did not mean to say that you rely on God as a cripple, the crutch. I meant that I was happy for you, that your life has had positive influences cause by your ability to believe in something wholly and truly.

[GothicTsukiyomi]

I think it's because:

Explain things they don't understand (can vary, like in the olden days, diseases, natural disasters)
Give them someone to ask for hope, forgiveness, vent to


I have no problem with religious people. however when they start shoving it down other people's throats...and preaching...well I definitely cannot tolerate that whatsoever. Mainly super religious people that go God this God that.
That does show a problem you have with religious people.

Religious people don't preach to random people. You go to a CHURCH or a MOSQUE or A SYNAGUYGE(How ever you spell it) to hear the preaching. I'm raised a Christian but I'm in NO way religious. In fact by my own standards I belive I'm headed for Hell.

Point: It's the Athiest now a days that are forcing people(Through diplomacy) to be Non-Relgious. Sooner or later some Radical Atheist is going to propose that all Relgious institutions be destryoyed because looking at a Cross or a Star of David or a Fucking Crecent and Star offends them.

If God is a Fairy Tell to you Athiest, Then why get offended about a "Santa Clause" or his Elevs"?

[Jess]

did you even read my post? some religious people push their beliefs on others, THOSE are the people I have problems with. otherwise, I have NO problem at all with religious people. ONLY BIBLE THUMPERS AND THOSE THAT SHOVE THEIR BELIEFS ON OTHERS

as for preaching, there was a member on this forum that pushed his beliefs on other people aka PREACHING

Point: It's the Athiest now a days that are forcing people(Through diplomacy) to be Non-Relgious. Sooner or later some Radical Atheist is going to propose that all Relgious institutions be destryoyed because looking at a Cross or a Star of David or a Fucking Crecent and Star offends them.

maybe true, but some religious people are like this too, wanting to put religion everywhere and thinking America's ruined because we don't have religion in public schools

[GothicTsukiyomi]

did you even read my post? some religious people push their beliefs on others, THOSE are the people I have problems with. otherwise, I have NO problem at all with religious people. ONLY BIBLE THUMPERS AND THOSE THAT SHOVE THEIR BELIEFS ON OTHERS

as for preaching, there was a member on this forum that pushed his beliefs on other people aka PREACHING



maybe true, but some religious people are like this too, wanting to put religion everywhere and thinking America's ruined because we don't have religion in public schools
I understand that Jess I was mainly responding to this spefic(Sorry I can't spell for shit) segment of your post ".and preaching...well I definitely cannot tolerate that whatsoever. Mainly super religious people that go God this God that."

[Skeptical Bear]

That does show a problem you have with religious people.

Religious people don't preach to random people. You go to a CHURCH or a MOSQUE or A SYNAGUYGE(How ever you spell it) to hear the preaching. I'm raised a Christian but I'm in NO way religious. In fact by my own standards I belive I'm headed for Hell.

Point: It's the Athiest now a days that are forcing people(Through diplomacy) to be Non-Relgious. Sooner or later some Radical Atheist is going to propose that all Relgious institutions be destryoyed because looking at a Cross or a Star of David or a Fucking Crecent and Star offends them.

If God is a Fairy Tell to you Athiest, Then why get offended about a "Santa Clause" or his Elevs"?


My dad is a fanatic of Christianity. He reads the bible at night and MOST times lasts until 5 AM or later. If he's not doing that, he's watching the church channel. He has me and my sis read verses from the bible. There's your proof that he's a fanatic. NOW. He has this one friend that wanted all of us to go to church. He went. We didn't. When she sees that we didn't go and he did. She calls my mom and asks. My mom tells her that she just didn't wanna go and me and my sister were sick(BS) So the lady's like that we have the devil in us and the house. What the fuck is this shit. I think she has the fucking devil her ass. If going to church helps her out emotionally. Good. But I don't want someone coming at my family trying to "save" us. If this all exists at the end of the day, I know I'm going to hell and I don't care. And don't say "You won't be saying that when you get there" because I got in this world to live my life HERE. What if there's no afterlife? Not taking the chance.

[GothicTsukiyomi]

My dad is a fanatic of Christianity. He reads the bible at night and MOST times lasts until 5 AM or later. If he's not doing that, he's watching the church channel. He has me and my sis read verses from the bible. There's your proof that he's a fanatic. NOW. He has this one friend that wanted all of us to go to church. He went. We didn't. When she sees that we didn't go and he did. She calls my mom and asks. My mom tells her that she just didn't wanna go and me and my sister were sick(BS) So the lady's like that we have the devil in us and the house. What the fuck is this shit. I think she has the fucking devil her ass. If going to church helps her out emotionally. Good. But I don't want someone coming at my family trying to "save" us. If this all exists at the end of the day, I know I'm going to hell and I don't care. And don't say "You won't be saying that when you get there" because I got in this world to live my life HERE. What if there's no afterlife? Not taking the chance.

Well you did quote me and I said "I'm raised a Christian but I'm in NO way religious. In fact by my own standards I belive I'm headed for Hell." So I agree with everything you just said and also sympathyse with you(Sorry I can't spell for shit)

[Skeptical Bear]

It's okay. I'm fine with religious people who aren't like that.

[ExhibitG]

i'm getting really sick of these types of posts. the argument for a God is just as good as the argument against it because no one knows for sure either way. it can't be proven right or wrong. so let's just let everyone believe what they want to believe instead of being so bigoted all the time.

[Clawhammer]

i'm getting really sick of these types of posts. the argument for a God is just as good as the argument against it because no one knows for sure either way. it can't be proven right or wrong. so let's just let everyone believe what they want to believe instead of being so bigoted all the time.

Hey, look, a smart person. Let's all agree with him now. K, thanks.

[Wesley1369]

im not so sure, i would argue the evedince against god is much more substantial than the evidence for god. but thats the great thing about America, we can believe what we want and theres no wrong in it. i may personally think religion is pointless and total fabrication but i honestly dont care if someone is very religious. them being religious has no effect on me so why should i care at all? from my view if you wanna waste time going to church, go right ahead doesnt bother me, do what you want. AMERICA!!!

[User Deleted]

It's simple, really. There are differing reasons for differing individuals and some I hate more than others, I am sorry it is true.

This argument is the one that I think is genuinely sad, and the only one that I really dislike, is the one where because people want security. Because they want heaven. The thought never occurred to these people that if they want a million dollars pretending they have it wont make it any more real. These people never thought their religion through they simply want a sense of security I believe to be false. Now, don't get me wrong, the people who have this view can be genuinely good people they simply have not put in strong contemplation.

Then, here is a view I have the most respect for. Because you were born into a religion. If you are born into a family with a religion it may very well be ingrained into your thoughts, I have an incredibly smart friend who I often debate with. We're long time friends we can get away with talking about the forbidden subjects (sex, religion, politics). He admits my views and skepticism are smart and in return I believe his explanations are far more well structured than that of the average christian. Like I said being born into something makes you more likely to do it, the same is true with families and alcoholism. That's simply how it is.

Lastly, there is the lack of comprehension. I don't have an explanation so I choose god. This I believe is a dying point of view as now a days people have the education to understand there are possibilities out of a god, meaning there is a choice out of the explanation of god. There were times, long ago, where gods were the only explanation. We respect mythologies for they were beliefs from when knowledge hadn't taken off, but religions that stay? They often arise conflict.

I suppose sometimes these views even intermingle, for example if you are born into it but don't understand it then you are taking the second and third views I listed and making them one. If you take all three views (or more I haven't said) of Christianity then I suppose you have a gumbo of opinions. People believe for a variety of reasons. Now, with that said don't take it into a stereotype. With millions of followers there are probably a ridiculous number of reasons I presume the quantity of them surreal.

Nevertheless if you really want to know go out and ask a bunch of people to find how incredibly many varied answers you will receive. But fuck that, it's not that big of a deal people can believe what they want why ever the hell they want to. For example I'd be a pastafarian not in that I believe in a flying spaghetti monster, no, because I find it such a hilarious satirical concept the joking belief if irresistible.

Now, my reasons for being a pastafarian are incredibly ridiculous, such is life. The point I'm trying to prove is you can't simply speak for the minority by stating the mass opinion. Can I get a RAMen?

Before I am mistaken, yes I am an atheist, yes I fully believe that there is no god, and no, I cannot disprove that there is a god. But nor can I disprove that there is a magical invisible unicorn behind me. There is the possibility of a god however I equate it to the invisible unicorn and the million dollars I want. The possibility of of god exists but is slim. Since it is there no matter how slim, I imagine people will believe.

---

Now for story time if you want to hear why I believed as an individual. I was young, my whole life "exposed to god." I fucking believed in Santa clause, the Easter bunny, and the tooth fairy until four years ago. The most interesting part, that was only a couple years before I stopped believing in god. But that will come into play later.

I was so young when I believed, it began as a blind belief. No questions, it simply was. Gravity simply was. I understood in information and some knowledge but at such an age where I executed no wisdom. Of course god made sense. What other explanations had I been exposed to? None, actually. So I formed ideas off of the church, loop holes to make the bible "work." They teach as they can to make it believable as possible and to understand the bible alone, had you never seen it, never heard, you would think it fictitious and entertaining perhaps.

So I grew older as the laws of the universe dictate I do. And with such a miraculous happening I thought. I contemplated. And things got complicated after I hit ten. The age Santa was fake to gullible little me. Thanks to my mom for allowing and reinforcing that with god. When Santa crumbled it was time for something that would be a feat at my age. A slow uphill journey through other opinions. Yes, science class.

The Big Bang Theory. I don't believe in it though I do think it provides insight that god is not the only possibility. Evolution. It makes perfect sense. Fossils. Science was stronger than god and boy was I pissed. Rational explanations didn't even hit me, like rubber I rejected the ideas wholeheartedly without a thought. God was all I knew and I had too much faith.

Slowly but surely I matured and contemplated the ideas that came to information yet never registered as knowledge, it made sense. Then the bible seemed to contradict itself.

Hold up, why did I believe before hand? Because this is an important turning point.

I had believed because my mom told me it was true, I believed because without thinking it made sense, I believed honestly not because it brought me comport. No. It hurt me, their ideals, morals, limits, it was like my mind was in a box. Literally. I am a powerfully ingrained logical thinker. I logically have ruled out love as something I personally want and that is my personal opinion. Just as I believed in god it was not belief of choice rather of what I had observed to be true. I do not believe what I want rather what I know. So to me god was truth, I was born into it without true thought of it. This is why I was christian once upon a time.

So as I ruled atheism to make more logical sense it appealed to me, though the idea of no god was awkward. Another incentive people stay christian. It doesn't "feel" right to be atheist. But that feeling is inevitably long gone.

---

So as a summary, people relive in god because it is their freedom, their opinion, their want, what they see as fact. This is the vague insight to a few key reasons people believe, sometimes weather we know it or not.

[Genghis Khan]

Thats a very ignorant comment you made sir.

Deal with it sir.

--

Edit:

Do you seriously think you can't choose what you believe in?

You can't choose what you believe in. If I'm an atheist, I can't just choose to become Christian, I have to be convinced. Choosing =/= being convinced.

[deadpie]

Fear of death, fear of hell, fear of ignorance, loneliness, wanting the simple answer to everything, they were raised with that mindset, people like the idea that someone is taking care of them, and fear of meaning. Short simple post because I'm too lazy to care anymore.

[SolarSolexis]

First of all, deny it or not, there is something BORN into us that tells us right from wrong. When you steal, do you feel guilty? When you lie, do you feel bad for it? The answer should be yes. After years of hardening a persons heart, it can go away. But it was still born into them. Second of all, you shouldn't diss other people's views and call them stupid for believing it. Because religion may not be able to be proven - but you can't disprove it either. As human beings, scientists have estimated that the entire history of man up until now, only knows about 5% of EVERYTHING that there is to know. That is from everyone combined. So until we know everything, we cannot tell other people that religion is false. Thirdly, just as you have the right to feel religion is stupid, they have a right for believing religion is vitally important.

Fourthly, the way I see it is everyone has two options: One, they can believe in a religion and live their life in a good way (Not lying, not stealing, treating others with kindness and in general have standards) or they can choose to not believe in a religion and have no standards. I am not saying a person who does not believe in religion cannot be nice and kind, I am just saying that don't have nearly as high of standards for living. Then from those two choice stems two possibilities: The first possibility is that their is no afterlife. The second possibility is that their is an afterlife.

If you believe in a religion, and there is no afterlife, what harm did it really do you? You lived your life good, you helped others, and you were kind. What regrets should you have? If you believe in a religion and there is a afterlife, you will be in paradise. Once again, you have no regrets.

If you do not believe in a religion, and there is no afterlife, you don't really have a downfall. You lived your life how you wanted, and probably have tons of regrets. But if there is an afterlife, you're screwed. You are damned to hell for eternity. Eternity means FOREVER. Imagine all of the suffering you have ever gone through put together forever. Never ending, never ceasing.

To me, it seems like a clear decision. That is why I believe in Christianity. But I am not going to force down anyone's throat. I just think it's a decision each person has to make for themselves. Everyone is different, and not everyone is going to believe what you believe.

[Electra Heart]

yeah they're just really stupid i guess

Really? You're going to go there? Believe what you want, and I won't judge you, just be aware that you may be pissing some people off.

As far as the answer to the OP's question, religion is simply the explanation of the unexplained. There are thousands of unanswered questions in the universe, religion comes a a sort of closure to people, it makes them feel like they are a part of something, and can connect to the real world.

I personally believe that in the same way, it is simply an escape from fear of these questions. A reason why I myself am currently debating my morality towards my religion...

[Wesley1369]

religion was conceived a long long time ago as a way to keep people in line, people of higher power told them that if they behaved a certain way, god would smite them, and therefore they gained control over those people, thats how it started. and religion is slowly becoming less relevant in american society.

[Dimitri]

Bonus points to anyone who posts from the point of view of those who used to be similarly religious and changed their mind.
Not similarly but I was a very religious person and now I have a committed relationship with my boyfriend....

On the other hand...

My mother, seeing that I am afraid of my church for certain reasons listed above...has promised that she would never be part of something that hated me so...she left the church...

[Genghis Khan]

just be aware that you may be pissing some people off.

Yes, that was the intention, thank you for complying n__n

[Cicero]

It's never made sense to me. There's so much evidence against it, and so little reason, but people still fool themselves into thinking their religion is true. Is it brainwashing? A simple unwillingless to recognize that their entire belief system is false? What is it that produces people like Rick Santorum, who simply won't change?

Bonus points to anyone who posts from the point of view of those who used to be similarly religious and changed their mind.

People believe in a religion because it gives them a sense of purpose. If you believe that earth is the beginning and end, and when you die you just get buried, not only is it depressing, but it can make people unmotivational. Theirs plenty of evidence in certain religions, but no evidence of an afterlife In heaven or hell. How do you explain ghosts? Or spiritual contact? You can easily find information for disproving religinp, but you can easily find information about proving religion. Like Jesus of Nazareth was a real man, it's just the belief of whether he was just a good guy, or he was the son of God. Which cannot be scientifically proven, it can only be proven that he was a real person who died on a cross the Romans built. If you ask me, religion is what keeps different parts of the world peaceful. Like the Monks in china or Asia, they harm no one they improve the quality of life. And the root of most religions is to do good and not evil. Theirs just different people who negatively represent the religion. Even though Christianity gets slammed all the time, the meaning of being a TRUE Christian is to be Christ like. But Christians now a days just go to church, praise God, then once they get out the start cussing, abusing substances and what not. But the meaning of being a Christian is to help and serve others through Jesus Christ. NOT to judge people, but to help them lead them to salvation. I only say Christianity as an example because it always gets bashed.

[deadpie]

Eternity means FOREVER. Imagine all of the suffering you have ever gone through put together forever. Never ending, never ceasing.

To me, it seems like a clear decision. That is why I believe in Christianity. But I am not going to force down anyone's throat. I just think it's a decision each person has to make for themselves. Everyone is different, and not everyone is going to believe what you believe.

It's nice to know Christians know exactly what Hell is and don't have a problem with their own religion. Hell isn't fair, because in order for someone to be punished they have to learn their lesson. You cannot learn your lesson if your punishment is infinite. That's just fucking sadistic. Why would you believe in such a far fetched nasty disturbing way of life? It's nasty and makes me want to puke.

Also, when Rawal said, "yeah they're just really stupid i guess", it's the nihilistic troll response. Stop making a big deal. You're reinforcing the opinion.


People believe in a religion because it gives them a sense of purpose. If you believe that earth is the beginning and end, and when you die you just get buried, not only is it depressing, but it can make people unmotivational.

Too bad it's true. Not a sense of purpose, but fear. You lie to yourself to make you feel better. You think your life is more deserving than that of a polar bear because your brain is far more "creative" and you can "go places". Go places as walk towards a television and rot knowing everything will be ok because you get your sexless white fun eternal Heaven while all your Muslim friends are crispy for life. Gives me a boner already! I'm in! Hell yeah Christianity.

Theirs plenty of evidence in certain religions, but no evidence of an afterlife In heaven or hell.

Plenty of evidence to disprove religions and lots of psuedo science for religion that's already been ripped to shreds or is waiting to be on the list.


How do you explain ghosts? Or spiritual contact?

They don't exist. More psuedoscience, too much television getting to your head, no evidence at all.

You can easily find information for disproving religinp, but you can easily find information about proving religion.

The difference is that the sources that disprove religion have facts. Scientists, philosophers, Professors and all that jazz have objective answers to things. Now the proof FOR religion is one sided about 98 percent of the time with a website specifically made to prove that certain religion. They'll use what I've been saying, "psuedoscience" and fake material, along with quotes from a few apologetics. I'd rely more on people that have facts, people that have saved our lives and given us decades more of life.

Like Jesus of Nazareth was a real man, it's just the belief of whether he was just a good guy, or he was the son of God.

Well he didn't exist so he can't be a good or bad guy, nor can he even be here.

If you ask me, religion is what keeps different parts of the world peaceful.

The world is not peaceful right now simply because of religion. In fact, religion has taken thousands upon thousands of lives. Well, this is when someone says, "It's not the religion, it's the people that use it wrong!" Well, if that is exactly how it's meant to be used and if the Bible or Quran is commanding you to kill this and kill that because this and that, is it really that surprising? No.

Like the Monks in china or Asia, they harm no one they improve the quality of life.

You obviously know nothing about China or Asia at all. The land of Tibet isn't a beautiful place. Do some research.

And the root of most religions is to do good and not evil.

And that definition of good isn't always good if good means you're demanded to kill certain people because God says so.

I only say Christianity as an example because it always gets bashed.

This is a forum for people who want help. There's a huge amount of people on this site who have gone through tons of tough shit or feel like shit, they have probably questioned their faith, which is what everyone should do. They questioned their beliefs and saw nothing but complete shit. Some people have had their lives torn to pieces because of religion; be it through parents, community, friends, or just the religion itself.

[Genghis Khan]

The world is not peaceful right now simply because of religion. In fact, religion has taken thousands upon thousands of lives. Well, this is when someone says, "It's not the religion, it's the people that use it wrong!" Well, if that is exactly how it's meant to be used and if the Bible or Quran is commanding you to kill this and kill that because this and that, is it really that surprising? No.

I agree that religion itself was at fault a long time ago when cherrypicking ideals from the Holy Book wasn't common and there weren't any answers to existential and philosophical questions. In the dim and distant past, religion was all there is to blame. Now, now that so many resources are available, so much has changed, so many new discoveries have been made and people from literally every religious dogma cherry pick what they think is their religion, it's mostly down to the person.

At least in the developed West, society's moral standards have evolved through the medium of secularism, rationality, debate and reason. Religion has come to a point where it's saying its final goodbyes as the next few generations get progressively less conservative and religious.

I guess what I'm trying to say is this evolutionary process has got us to the point where, if you stone your child to death in the name of religion, it isn't so much the religion's fault as it is your own considering that you're consciously picking which parts of the religion seem true to you. Obviously, if you think wearing clothes with more than one kind of fabric isn't a sin or the Sabbath day should not be celebrated however you think it's okay that you should stone your neighbour to death because the Bible says so, then it is your decision. Especially when you're in a social pool of people who generally accept that such ideals are morally flawed.

I hope this is making sense to you because I'm trying to be clear on what I mean. Principally, my point is it isn't so much religion's onus rather than the person's considering the time and cultural difference. Anything idiosyncratic that a person does now that is also briefly mentioned in the Bible or the Koran may not necessarily be the dogma's fault.

[Gordo]

God hates religion

[Outside The Box]

"Religion is regarded by the common people as true, by the wise as false, and by the rulers as useful." and those that rule support this by not taxing churches..etc.

[PerpetualImperfexion]

You know why people cling to their beliefs? It's cause people who live in a house full of Christians don't want to be judged by their loved ones. I used to be Christian then I realized how illogical religion is. I still haven't told any of my family members. None of my friends at my christian school know.


"Religion is regarded by the common people as true, by the wise as false, and by the rulers as useful." and those that rule support this by not taxing churches..etc.

No rulers take advantage of religion in other ways. Look at the egyptians with their god-kings, the chinese with their mandate of heaven, etc.

[SolarSolexis]

I don't necessarily agree with the above post. I am one of the only Christian people in my family. I came to my choice of free will.

Let me make a correction: I do not believe that people without a religion have low standards or that they can't be good people. I just believe that not many non-religious people are nice to everyone. Once again this is MY personal belief, so please don't bash me for it.

Second of all, fear should be a heavily used thing to convert people to a religion. Because, to me, believing in Christ and in Hell is fair, and it is something someone who isn't saved should fear.

Thirdly, people are told what they are doing wrong. I believe you should take a look at the ten commandments. It states clearly in them what people are doing wrong, and the punishment is eternal death.

Fourthly, there is a way around going to hell (Aka: accepting Christ as your Lord and savior, and repenting of your sins).

Fifthly, Why is it people want to bash religious people for believing in something above them? It just isn't fair. I don't yell or bash anyone for their beliefs, but I believe it is important to notify others of your beliefs in a calm, rational manor.

Please don't be so close minded on everything. I have researched into a variety of religions, including Atheism and Agnosticism. I chose Christianity because that is what I believe is right.

[Jean Poutine]

hey look another religion topic on VT *golf clap* original.

What is it with Americans and religion? Did all the Quarter Pounders you've consumed collectively as a nation go up to your brains and rid them of the ability to keep yourself from doing stupidly useless, wasteful and utterly amazingly retarded things such as debating, of all things, religion?

I come from a culture where religion is supposed to be a private matter. You do not ask friends about what they believe in until you're on such terms as to ask him or her to be a godparent to your kids. Even then, actually confronting them about it is unthinkable and a good way to make people despise you. If you're going to discuss religion and beliefs, it's to ask genuinely interested questions, and getting all uppity about it will make you lose a lot of the respect you had gained with your friend until now. Recently, people from different cultures have been trying to push their religion, be it Christianity, Islam or who knows what else onto the public in my part of the world. Frankly I'm getting really pissed and annoyed at it and since I don't know anybody to chastise I'm just going to vent at you people.

Why can't you kids stop ripping your shirt every time you hear the word religion and keep it to yourself like intelligent, mature and responsible people (there seems to be very few) do?

Religion is meant to be an inwards sort of thing. You're supposed to be in a personal relationship with your deity, no matter what anyone tries to tell you. The reason paganism waned in Roman times is because the Roman religion was very centered around public duty, and the ideals of what a Roman citizen should appear to the rest of the world. At that time, Christianity held for a doctrine that each believer is in a direct, personal relationship with God. It is a big factor of why it took so much steam and why the whole of Europe became Christianized.

Your relationship with whatever man in the sky you believe concerns only one person. You. Maybe your loved one if you so happen to trust him/her. No one else.

I do not care that you find religion ridiculous and I do not care that you think God is the best thing since sliced bread. Both camps should shut the fuck up and explore for 5 minutes the inanity of trying to debate such a personal concept as religion. Religion belongs at home and at places of worship. It should be kept out of the streets, public buildings (including businesses), schools, government policy and yes, even random Internet forums.

So once and for all just stop beating a long dead horse and in the same breath, stop flaunting your beliefs or lack thereof.

Despite what you may think, both extremities are not up to discussion. Side A says religion is bullshit while side B denies furiously and asks side A to prove a negative which side A will shift back to side B with the (hilariously fallacious) "argument" that "one can't prove a negative" and we get to the fun part where side B gets butthurt and eithers start quoting Scripture like an old story book matters one bit in the modern world or starts making random assertions such as "atheists can't be good people because they have no moral code" while everybody stops caring and nothing has changed.

One side likes to pride itself for taking the mantle of "logic" but really they're both every single particle in a bit equally as condescending, sophistic, intolerably stupid and incoherent.

[shashasha]

This is depressing, religion makes people happy', you should try it someday

[BassSwagg]

Why don't you. not saying i do but i wanna know why you dont, unless you do

[deadpie]

Second of all, fear should be a heavily used thing to convert people to a religion. Because, to me, believing in Christ and in Hell is fair, and it is something someone who isn't saved should fear.

Whether you agree with what you say or not it's not humanly rational. The worst human punishment that never ends is not a punishment. It's simply just torture. Another thing is you have multiple religions convincing you if you don't follow them you're fucked in really shit ways. So what are you supposed to do? Weigh out which version of Hell is the worse and just believe in the one that's worse so if you're wrong you're punishment won't be as painful? Or simply believe in the Hell that isn't too painful because you're quite sure this religion isn't "too violent", although it's still violent. Either way you're fucked in every other religion you're not following that has an afterlife of punishment.

Thirdly, people are told what they are doing wrong. I believe you should take a look at the ten commandments. It states clearly in them what people are doing wrong, and the punishment is eternal death.

Which is fucking stupid. Kill this and kill that. Get killed and kill your son. Rape a woman and marry her. Kill a faggot too. Kill anyone that doesn't believe in your religion. Kill people who are fortune tellers too. Now isn't that beautiful? Isn't that what you call love and peace? Everything that the amazing Jesus wants.

Fourthly, there is a way around going to hell (Aka: accepting Christ as your Lord and savior, and repenting of your sins).

Which I pointed out is technically not a point because you can't be sure which religion is right and either way you're going to Hell in every other religion that has a version of Hell or just getting simply screwed over.

Fifthly, Why is it people want to bash religious people for believing in something above them?

Because the Bible is fucking stupid. Because killing people is stupid when a book is telling you to do it. It just pisses me off knowing that so many people are WILLINGLY delusional and insane. Then there's people like me who can't control their insanity. You have answers and proof. Me? My brain is wired to see things that aren't there, hear things that aren't there. I don't get to choose that. Jesus would probably say that's the Devil doing his work on me. I mean, he already thinks my epileptic friend is being controlled by Satan. What a fucking judgmental douche bag. He doesn't know shit about me or that friend I have.

It just isn't fair. I don't yell or bash anyone for their beliefs, but I believe it is important to notify others of your beliefs in a calm, rational manor.

"Believe this or else X" is not rational or calm. It's not only stupid, annoying, but just ridiculous.

Please don't be so close minded on everything. I have researched into a variety of religions, including Atheism and Agnosticism.

Atheism and agnosticism aren't religions. I'm not closed minded. I've converted to a few religions myself. I'm quite sure I know what I'm talking about.

I chose Christianity because that is what I believe is right.

I choose Deadpieism because it's obviously right. It says right here on VT. If anyone alive on this planet doesn't worship me as their God, they will eternally go through the worst pains possible. There's no escape. People who follow me on a daily basis, DAILY, will get everything they've wished for in the afterlife along with immortality. I have a few rules though; don't kill people, don't annoy your neighbor, R E S P E C T (Tell me what it means to me!), and don't forget to kill everyone who doesn't follow me. I know that sounds hypocritical, but it isn't. Trust me, I'm God. I'm not a hypocrite.

[insanity]

i choose deadpieism because it's obviously right. It says right here on vt. If anyone alive on this planet doesn't worship me as their god, they will eternally go through the worst pains possible. There's no escape. People who follow me on a daily basis, daily, will get everything they've wished for in the afterlife along with immortality. I have a few rules though; don't kill people, don't annoy your neighbor, r e s p e c t (tell me what it means to me!), and don't forget to kill everyone who doesn't follow me. I know that sounds hypocritical, but it isn't. Trust me, i'm god. I'm not a hypocrite.

where can i sign up :o

[SolarSolexis]

You must be kidding, right? If you had even the slightest clue of what you were speaking of, then you would know that is the OLD Testament when the ENTIRE WORLD was like that, not just Christianity. In the New Testament, it preaches of love and kindness, no matter what. It has never said anywhere in the new testament to kill anyone, not ever. It encourages us to be good to one another, and when someone strikes at you, you don't strike back. You drown them with kindness.

The Bible never asks anyone to kill anyone! No where in the New Testament does it say to kill anyone! So I have no idea what you are talking about. And I never told anyone to believe in anything! I said what I believe in, not what YOU should believe in. Once again, get your facts straight.

People like you are the reason why religions don't work. Who gave you the right to go around and act the king of things and judge everyone else's beliefs? That's just flat out insane. If you actually listened to your so called "respect", then you wouldn't be flaming other people and their methods of worship. You can believe whatever you want, and I respect that. Do I think it's right? No. Will I chastise you for it? No. I think everyone - Including Christians and Muslims and Buddhists - should have a right to speak for their respective religions without anyone else in the world judging. As long as they aren't hurting anyone, what is the problem?

Reading many of these posts I feel very sorry for many of you. I will keep all of you in my prayers, and bid you well. Judge me all you want. Try and break me down. I know the truth, and I pray you will too.

Matthew 5:44-45
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

Ephesians 1:7
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace.

Luke 23:34
Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

[MaliciousBunface]

That does show a problem you have with religious people.

Religious people don't preach to random people. You go to a CHURCH or a MOSQUE or A SYNAGUYGE(How ever you spell it) to hear the preaching.


Oh hell fucking no. That is a load of bull right there, I see people who preach out in public to people who don't give a shit. It's really nice when someone comes to me and my friends and says we're gonna die soon cause we don't believe in God.

And that would be synagogue.

[Genghis Khan]

hurrr new testament jacks me off like a mad cow

Back to the drawing board.

Let's just forget about the Old Testament where Yahweh was an angry motherfucker that masturbated over the stench of blood, mauled children, plagued the world and wreaked havoc with the promise of an apocalyptic-cataclysmic prophecy which by the way Jesus said counts as the word of God. Now we have the cuddly New Testament with Jesus and his homosexual disciples and a God who has finally calmed the fuck down.

Here's an interesting point to consider, the Old Testament (Torah) did not have a concept of hell, which is why certain Orthodox Jews don't believe in a Hell or any concept of eternal torture. That fear-imposing construct was introduced in the New Testament and some of the descriptions of the suffering people have to go through in that fiery wonderland is as bad if not worse than the punishment promised in the Koran.

I don't know why people like you pick on the Old Testament as if it was all some huge misunderstanding that has nothing to do with you. There is a reason why Judaism, Christianity and Islam are so inter-connected, they are the Abrahamic religions. They are a collection of the so-called events and evolution of God's word in the Middle East. There is no 'there is my fuzzy Bible God and there is your nasty Torah Yahweh and Quranic Allah who hates infidels'. Whether he is Yahweh or Allah, he is a sadomasochistic, apocalyptic, sadistic construct.

--

On a side note, I don't mind you using religion as a way to find a reason to do good things. People have obscure motivations for positively contributing to society but on a debate forum don't attempt to throw out abstract and murky justifications of why one religion is correct and the other isn't by systematically twisting what's actually been stated in the book.

[SolarSolexis]

Excuse you? You have no right to twist my words around. That is just flat out cruel. I don't mind people speaking their opinions - but what you have said is flat out disrespectful. That's crossing a line. I am such a loss for words for now...

I don't understand people like you. Do you like to intentionally be disrespectful, juvenile people? I mean, do you ever grow up? Do you have a period in life where you can actually just have a normal conversation without twisting other people's words around? Or are you lacking in your mental abilities to do so?

Sometimes you have to actually just say "I respect your opinion, but I don't have to agree with it." And let that be it. But no, you did not. You have created a post that was intentionally designed that would intentionally upset others. Namely me. Such rudeness is why the world is in the state that it is - Famine, war, etc.

[Genghis Khan]

Excuse you? You have no right to twist my words around. That is just flat out cruel. I don't mind speaking their opinions - but what you have said is flat out disrespectful. That's crossing a line. I am such a loss for words for now...

Where did I twist your words around? I took the intention of your post and rephrased it so as to not take up so much space in one post. I could have reworded that politely but I'm frankly so sick of that argument that it'd take an immense amount of patience for me to take it seriously.

I don't understand people like you. Do you like to intentionally be disrespectful, juvenile people? I mean, do you ever grow up? Do you have a period in life where you can actually just have a normal conversation without twisting other people's words around? Or are you lacking in your mental abilities to do so?

No I'm quite capable actually.

Sometimes you have to actually just say "I respect your opinion, but I don't have to agree with it." And let that be it. But no, you did not. You have created a post that was intentionally designed that would intentionally upset others. Namely me. Such rudeness is why the world is in the state that it is - Famine, war, etc.

http://www.colourbox.com/preview/1695695-198905-teen-girl-eating-salad-laughing-with-head-back.jpg

What?


I don't have to dismiss everything stupid you say as 'I respect your opinion but I disagree'. The reason is not only do I not respect your opinion but it defeats the purpose of contributing to a debate thread. To be really frank, this forced politeness that people succumb to for the sake of not being offensive or seemingly intolerant is as worthless to me as life is to a practicing nihilist.
How the hell did you make the link between people who make the effort to debate and famine/war?

[SolarSolexis]

First of all, you turned my post that had nothing of a profane nature and turned it into something that had a profane nature. I clearly said no such thing as "hurrr new testament jacks me off like a mad cow".

If you can be decent - then why not do it? It's so much better than being disrespectful. Especially to people you don't even have a clue about. I am in this generation and I see where older people come from. This generation has something wrong with it - a lack of respect for human beings.

Forced politeness? It is my nature. I open doors for people at restaurants and Supermarkets. I pick up things for the elderly or girls. If I order a pizza or take-out, I tip the driver 15%. The things I do are just my nature. This isn't forced politeness. I am this way to everyone without even thinking about it.

I made the link between you (people who are rude, inconsiderate, disrespectful, and do not care about common decency) to the fact that the world is filled with rude, inconsiderate, disrespectful people who don't care about common decency. This leads to tension between people, which leads to fighting, and the rejection of certain branches of humanity altogether if not prevented.

Seems pretty logical to me. Bad people = Bad world... Basic logic.

PS: I laughed when I saw that photo. It reminds me of my sister.

[Genghis Khan]

Forced politeness? It is my nature. I open doors for people at restaurants and Supermarkets. I pick up things for the elderly or girls. If I order a pizza or take-out, I tip the driver 15%. The things I do are just my nature. This isn't forced politeness. I am this way to everyone without even thinking about it.

I'm not talking about general courtesy, I'm talking about people who post on a debate forum and expect their beliefs to receive respect by default and are so shit scared of having their belief thesis criticised. I like to think I'm a polite person in general, but as far as debates go, there shouldn't be this expectation that people must 'respect others and politely disagree' without engaging in discourse.

I made the link between you (people who are rude, inconsiderate, disrespectful, and do not care about common decency) to the fact that the world is filled with rude, inconsiderate, disrespectful people who don't care about common decency. This leads to tension between people, which leads to fighting, and the rejection of certain branches of humanity altogether if not prevented.

That is a very far-fetched link and has no basis whatsoever. If anyone here gets so worked up by debates that they develop a genuine animosity towards people who hold a certain point of view I'd say they are the exception rather than the rule. Nobody should get worked up by people on internet forums.

Seems pretty logical to me. Bad people = Bad world... Basic logic.

I love how based on this one example and without even getting to know me you infer or even secretly decide that I must be a bad person. My manners have nothing to do with how good or bad I am. I eat like a pig, I eat my nails in public, I pick my fucking nose and swear a whole lot. This doesn't make me any worse of a person, it doesn't change the fact that I am truthful, I can be trusted and I genuinely like helping people when it comes down to it.

[SolarSolexis]

In my opinion, that is where you are wrong. If we do not have respect for people's views (even if they are wrong), they are still entitled to them. I think that should be a key aspect to debate. You must first agree to disagree, and respect your opponent in at least a basic "everyone has a right to their side" manor. It's the way I was raised. Everyone in my house hold got to speak their opinion without fear of ridicule, because after all, what if that person is actually the person who is right?

In the scientific community, if someone proposes that the Sun is going to explode tomorrow, and claims they have proof, the other members will analysis the proposal (respectfully) and then give their retaliation in a respectful manor. This to me, makes sense. If everyone followed a simple guide line such as this, rudeness would be very minimal.

My point was not of an internet forum site - my point of is how people act in real life. I base my view on a person by what I see. If a person is rude to me, my initial thought of that person is "They are rude." which is what everyone does. It doesn't make me treat them any differently, however. I just guard myself more closely next time I am around them. Let me make this point: A man steals a womans taxi. The woman is angry. She (most likely) will take the anger out on a co-worker, family member, friend, etc. The cycle usually continues until it escalates into a serious problem (once more of the accumulates). All problems work this way. All of them, even the big ones. It starts out (typically) as something small, but people either don't care, have the time, or the money to fix it. The problem will grow and grow until it needs emergency assistance. This is seen in large parts of the world.

Lastly, as I have said before, my opinion of someone is based by what I see. I can do no more, because I am not psychic. If you don't want to have people mistake you for being a bad person, then don't act like one. It's that simple.

My grandma always told me "For even liars can tell the truth", so everything I hear and read is always taken with a grain of salt unless I have more proof (or I feel that it is right in my heart).

[Genghis Khan]

In my opinion, that is where you are wrong. If we do not have respect for people's views (even if they are wrong), they are still entitled to them. I think that should be a key aspect to debate. You must first agree to disagree, and respect your opponent in at least a basic "everyone has a right to their side" manor. It's the way I was raised. Everyone in my house hold got to speak their opinion without fear of ridicule, because after all, what if that person is actually the person who is right?

I'm not saying you aren't entitled to an opinion, you are, but don't get butthurt when someone criticises it. Your best bet is to stop talking about manners and actually refer back to the points I had made regarding your post on the Old and New testament.

Lastly, as I have said before, my opinion of someone is based by what I see. I can do no more, because I am not psychic. If you don't want to have people mistake you for being a bad person, then don't act like one. It's that simple.

If you are already labelling me as a bad person, based on one single post I've made then you are extremely judgemental and you should seriously reconsider your moral layout.

[SolarSolexis]

No, I am not a judgmental person. I am quite the opposite. As I said, I can only make an opinion about what I have seen. I can infer nothing else. I do not put my entire view on a person based off of one experience with them. But I can make a temporary placement that tells me to "Watch out" just in case. I modify my view if need be.

To quote Kelly Clarkson; "I play on the safe side so I don't get hurt". I have quite enough of that in my life time, so I give no one power over me anymore.

[Thunduhbuhlt]

I believe in religion because:
1. it is how I was raised
2. I have had personal inexplicable religious experiences
3. I feel safe when I warship God
4. It feels right to me

That's all I need to believe.

Others I am not sure, but this is me.

[deadpie]

The Bible never asks anyone to kill anyone!

Let's do this new testament killer swagger style

And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. Mark 6:11 yo

And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched Mark 9:43

And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Luke 3:9

But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say, Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city. Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. Luke 10:10-15

He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 3:18

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. John 15:6

But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things. Acts 5:1-11

And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. Acts 10:10-13

But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith. Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him. And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. Acts 13:8-11

Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. Romans 1:31-32

Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. Romans 5:9

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: Romans 5:12

If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. 1 Corinthians 3:17

Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. 1 Corinthians 10:8

Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. 1 Corinthians 10:9

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. /Galatians 1:8-9

According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will Ephesians 1:4-5

And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. Ephesians 5:2

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:13

And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12

For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. Hebrews 9:13-22

Also, this is very important to you people who just ignore the new testament!

He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? Hebrews 10:28-29

(For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart Hebrew 12:20

Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. 1 Peter 3:20

And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; 2 Peter 2:6

But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. 2 Peter 3:7

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 2 Peter 3:10

I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. Jude 5

Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. Jude 7-8

Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. Revelation 1:7

Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. revelation 2:16

It's not nice knowing every day that Jesus will kill you with a sword that's sticking out of his fucking mouth.

And I (Jesus) will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. Revelation 2:23

And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth. Revelation 6:8

And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled. Revelation 6:10-11

And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 7:14

The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up. And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed. And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter. And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise. And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound! Revelation 8:7-13

And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads were as it were crowns like gold, and their faces were as the faces of men. And they had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as the teeth of lions. And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings was as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle. And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were stings in their tails: and their power was to hurt men five months. Revelation 9:7-10

And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the number of them. And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone. By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths. For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails: for their tails were like unto serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt. Revelation 9:15-19

And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven. The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly. Revelation 11:13-14

And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
Revelation 13:8

And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped. And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe. And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs. Revelation 14:14-20

For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy. Revelation 16:6

And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, which hath power over these plagues: and they repented not to give him glory. Revelation 16:9

And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds. Revelation 16:11

These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
Revelation 17:14

And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled. Revelation 17:16-17

And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. Revelation 19:11

And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh. Revelation 19:20-21

And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:15

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 21:8

I said what I believe in, not what YOU should believe in. Once again, get your facts straight.

Then why are you debating if you're not willing to impose your opinion? Your God commands you to do so anyways. You must attempt to convert me at all costs so I don't burn in Hell for eternity.

People like you are the reason why religions don't work. Who gave you the right to go around and act the king of things and judge everyone else's beliefs?

Me? Someone who's converted to several religions doesn't have the right to judge other people's beliefs? Who gave me the right? Nobody has to give it to me. It's free will. Or maybe your God did. Well bless him for giving me this knowledge just so he could send me to Hell anyways.

As long as they aren't hurting anyone, what is the problem?

Too bad they are doing that. Even if not physically, then mentally and emotionally.

Reading many of these posts I feel very sorry for many of you. I will keep all of you in my prayers, and bid you well. Judge me all you want. Try and break me down. I know the truth, and I pray you will too.

Too bad our lives suck and all that's left now in this shithole life is eternal fucking fire and torture. Not only is this life complete shit, but so is the afterlife if you're correct.

Matthew 5:44-45
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man's foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. Matthew 10:34-37

[Sugaree]

This is depressing, religion makes people happy', you should try it someday

Religion makes some happy and oppresses others. If religion ever made me happy, which it doesn't, I would have stuck to it.

[StoppingTime]

I never understood the point to asking this question.

There will always be people who follow religion, and always people who will not.
Whether it be because they think it is outdated, unneeded, stupid, etc... there are plenty of reasons.
There will also be the people who say it helps them, guides them, etc... and thats fine as well.

But they are both only fine until a point.

Once people start to force their beliefs (be it religious or not), then, there's a problem.
People are free to make their own decisions, regardless of what other people think is right. (You don't say?)

I don't get the question because there is no way to prove either point that will satisfy everyone.

Religious person: It was a miracle that person is still alive! Thank God!

Religious person who see that they need to act, not just let God work:
It was a miracle that the medicine worked so well! Thank God!

Completely non-religious person- It's great the medicine worked so well!


Everyone will never accept something was or was not a miracle, someone was or was not the son of God (capital S, I don't know), that God does or does not exist, etc...

But there is no way to completely prove either theory. There is no scientific proof saying God does or does not exist.
There is only faith. Some people want to believe it, others do not, and it doesn't matter!
As long as they aren't harming/bothering others, I never understood the problem.




Tl;dr: Neither theory can be proved, nobody will ever believe in one thing, (for now) just believe want you want, and don't preach.

[NotYourSombrero]

Your religion isn't based on some "higher calling". If a "Hard-headed" Christian who has believed in god and served god his/her entire life were born in a different place there religion would follow suit. In Iran (sorry cant name all the places) they would be Muslim,etc. I myself do believe in God although I don't believe he answers prayer.
To answer "Life is depressing nobody would have any reason to live if there was no hope.

[Weber_Swagg]

I think it's because people need something to live for or whats the point of living. People want to believe that they will be rewarded for doing the right thing. Some people just want a reason for something that no one knows for sure about. I don't know what to believe. However I will always do what I feel is right and I will never bring others down based on what they believe in. There is things pointing against it but not enough things to rule it out. But why are people so worked up about proving religion wrong? They have faith and you arguing with people isn't going to change that. It goes same vice versa!

[Alias]

I am going to respond to the OP instead of the massive clusterfuck of people arguing over religion.

Why do I beleive in my religion? Very simple, I beleive it is the most logical belief. It is not because of some fear of death bullshit, it is not because of parenting. It is not because of me not questioning it (infact, while I may be catholic, I disagree with the catholic church on certian points. Yes I think I am still catholic because I still beleive in everything that has been infallibly said by the pope)

Also I find alot of the answers given by athiests very demeaning. They imply that i am somehow stupid, ignorant, or unthoughtful, for beleiving in my beleifs. Or how I am some lost soul that hasn't found the truth. I do realise that you are giving your honest opinions on this. It would be nice if it was said more tactfully though.

It is the equivalent of me saying "Athiests are nonbeleivers because they have not seen the glory of God" or "They are simply rebelling against their parents"

I also find your views of the christian religion rather mistaken.

[Sudds3]

It's never made sense to me. There's so much evidence against it, and so little reason, but people still fool themselves into thinking their religion is true. Is it brainwashing? A simple unwillingless to recognize that their entire belief system is false? What is it that produces people like Rick Santorum, who simply won't change?

Bonus points to anyone who posts from the point of view of those who used to be similarly religious and changed their mind.

Thats what faith is! Faith is believing in a higher power with no evidence of existance! I dont need existance to believe that there is a God, and even if there isnt...what do I have to lose? Nothing, except one hour every sunday....thats it! So dont sound so ignorant when asking a question, you come off like a total tool when you do! It isnt even your right to question why people believe in it, but we do have the right to religion. So go your own ways and we will go ours, cant we just live in harmony like that?

I am going to respond to the OP instead of the massive clusterfuck of people arguing over religion.

Why do I beleive in my religion? Very simple, I beleive it is the most logical belief. It is not because of some fear of death bullshit, it is not because of parenting. It is not because of me not questioning it (infact, while I may be catholic, I disagree with the catholic church on certian points. Yes I think I am still catholic because I still beleive in everything that has been infallibly said by the pope)

Also I find alot of the answers given by athiests very demeaning. They imply that i am somehow stupid, ignorant, or unthoughtful, for beleiving in my beleifs. Or how I am some lost soul that hasn't found the truth. I do realise that you are giving your honest opinions on this. It would be nice if it was said more tactfully though.

It is the equivalent of me saying "Athiests are nonbeleivers because they have not seen the glory of God" or "They are simply rebelling against their parents"

I also find your views of the christian religion rather mistaken.

That was beautifully put! Nice job, and totally agree on not agreeing with some of the points in the Catholic church

merged. don't double post, use the edit button. -embers

[Mirage]

I honestly don't now if I believe in religion, I'm starting to feel like there really is nothing that happens after death. I don't know if I should be feeling this way but I am. Ah well. Now to reply to the OP: People believe because they are told to. By parents or friends or relatives; it's just how religion spreads. That's my opinion, anyways. :D

[plebble]

I think religion is all silly.
Think about the creation stories:
Hinduism: man lying on a snake and the world pops out of a lotus flower inside his belly button
Christianity and Judaism: A giant man made the entire universe with his hands
Islam: God said the word "be" and everything just appeared...

I'm sorry, but wow... I think the big bang is way more likely and has more backup

[Alias]

I think religion is all silly.
Think about the creation stories:
Hinduism: man lying on a snake and the world pops out of a lotus flower inside his belly button
Christianity and Judaism: A giant man made the entire universe with his hands
Islam: God said the word "be" and everything just appeared...

I'm sorry, but wow... I think the big bang is way more likely and has more backup

You're correct, the big bang is vastly more likely than your strawman made out of ignorance.

[Renee]

I have religion because when I was little I realized my morals were flimsy. Anything I tried to rule myself under- not eating the next cookie, not being selfish- was incredibly difficult. So I took Christianity, found morals I agreed with, and decided a higher power was watching me.
It's much easier to be good if you convince yourself there's going to be a reward. I guess I have religion because without it, I'm not even a remotely nice person. I'm weak enough to need religion, but most of mankind has needed it for centuries as well.
Not to mention my crippling fear of oblivion after death.
So, religion helps me be a good person and gives me hope. For me, religion is a positive thing.

[Jmihas]

Because that's how people are connected.

[JJSSHH]

I am a Hardcore Atheist.

[beplubber24]

I am a Hardcore Atheist.

Then be prepared to go to hell. Anyway, it's what people tell us to believe in. And what we believe in. I'm a Catholic and proud of it.

[FojeJC]

Hehe...
Funny posts lol
I believe that religion just limits the person's ability to believe in themselves or what a human being can do. Who knows if we can do magic or go to people's dreams. It all has to do with our belief system, our brain only uses like 1% of its power, what if we used 10% or 50%, what's to say we wouldn't have superpowers lol
We have to remember all this stuff, religion and science, are just theories for the universe and everything.
Now if god appeared at my door tomorrow morning then that would be a whole different story.
Oh and people believe in religion because they need faith to secure their position in the universe as an excellent creation of god.

I'm very opinionated :p

[StoppingTime]

Then be prepared to go to hell. Anyway, it's what people tell us to believe in. And what we believe in. I'm a Catholic and proud of it.

See, this is what I don't get about religion.
It's fine to be proud in what you believe in, but to tell other people they are wrong because they don't believe what you do, just doesn't seem like the right thing to do.

[FojeJC]

See, this is what I don't get about religion.
It's fine to be proud in what you believe in, but to tell other people they are wrong because they don't believe what you do, just doesn't seem like the right thing to do.

I agree.

[jackson94]

One of my favorite quotes

"Everyone is 99% atheist, just we [atheists] go one god further"
-Richard Dawkins

I see Religion as hypocritical, destructive, and manipulative. I think the argument for whether or not organized religion is bullshit or not was solved with the advancement of modern science. Old beliefs may take a while to die out however.

[Yer_Maw]

People who believe in religion have been told "this is fact." and believe it. In the bible there is the story of doubting Thomas who didn't believe Jesus came back to life and he was so people have been told to not question and just believe and some people question this higher power and not believe in it (atheists, etc)

[JackShephard]

It's never made sense to me. There's so much evidence against it, and so little reason, but people still fool themselves into thinking their religion is true. Is it brainwashing? A simple unwillingless to recognize that their entire belief system is false? What is it that produces people like Rick Santorum, who simply won't change?

Bonus points to anyone who posts from the point of view of those who used to be similarly religious and changed their mind.

Religion is still widely believed for a few reasons in my opinion.
1: many religious groups like to manipulate people into feeling guilty for their wrong doings. I think this I sick and a major reason why I have been turned off to organized religions. Yes I do believe people should atone for their mistakes but I don't think that it should be a tool used to assimilate people into the church.
2: it has a long history and had been popular for centuries. Something this big would take a long time to become extinct.
3: most religions are based on faith. Faith is a very strong bond. It can make you believe in something that you cannot see or is proven to be false.
4: some churches elude to a sense of satisfaction and even an aura or "better than you" I understand spiritual satisfaction but when it becomes about who's Jesus of the week, I stop going. Religion is not a contest.

Personally, I believe in God (so all you people who where about to jump me for speaking agains organized religion, relax.) My apparent issues with church are only with the church, not God or the word of God. I will put faith in God, but not humans who are liable to make a mistake or lie. My interpretation of God is very conceptual. Abstract even. I believe that he is more than a man floating on a big cloud. (I could go into more but I should dedicate a whole thread to that, I tie in God with what we know about the universe and apply it to theoretical physics. Its pretty cool, even of you do not believe in him)

[PerpetualImperfexion]

wow, this thread is very negative.

i believe in things because it just makes sense to me. i don't choose to be my religion, i really don't. i can't choose what i believe, now can i?

i believe in what i believe. there's nothing i can do about it.

Yep odds are that people like this guy have been brain washed sense birth. That's how they get you into it. The baptize you and send you to a private school where they brain wash you further. You end up being a mindless zombie who believes what people tell you is the truth. It's really not your fault, not even your parents fault, assuming they were brain washed too. Then there are those who begin to fall away. They realize somethign just isn't right. From there they have two options: Continue lying because they are afraid of what their family will think of them or they will come out about their lack of believes. I am seriously beginning to question whether or not half the people who say they are religious are actually religious, just putting on an act. I understand why they are putting on this act, I too am a closeted atheist. I'm not really afraid of what my family will think if I come out (they're all a bunch of psychotic morons anyway) but I am afraid they will take me out of the private christian school that I am currently attending where all my friends are going.

So I brief over view. Why do religious people believe in what they believe in? Brainwashing + Guilt

[Sugaree]

I am a Hardcore Atheist.

Then be prepared to go to hell. Anyway, it's what people tell us to believe in. And what we believe in. I'm a Catholic and proud of it.

And this is the problem. "Hardcore" atheists and Christians/Catholics/whatever always stir the pot.

[Efflorescence]

Yep odds are that people like this guy have been brain washed sense birth. That's how they get you into it. The baptize you and send you to a private school where they brain wash you further. You end up being a mindless zombie who believes what people tell you is the truth. It's really not your fault, not even your parents fault, assuming they were brain washed too. Then there are those who begin to fall away.

So I brief over view. Why do religious people believe in what they believe in? Brainwashing + Guilt

Lol. There are people who believe in religion because it makes sense to them. Maybe they have had doubts but they still believe there is something out there and religion is a positive influence in their lives. Now there are others who don't. How does that make religious people mindless zombies?

[Truth]

Religion is still widely believed for a few reasons in my opinion.
1: many religious groups like to manipulate people into feeling guilty for their wrong doings. I think this I sick and a major reason why I have been turned off to organized religions. Yes I do believe people should atone for their mistakes but I don't think that it should be a tool used to assimilate people into the church.
2: it has a long history and had been popular for centuries. Something this big would take a long time to become extinct.
3: most religions are based on faith. Faith is a very strong bond. It can make you believe in something that you cannot see or is proven to be false.
4: some churches elude to a sense of satisfaction and even an aura or "better than you" I understand spiritual satisfaction but when it becomes about who's Jesus of the week, I stop going. Religion is not a contest.

Personally, I believe in God (so all you people who where about to jump me for speaking agains organized religion, relax.) My apparent issues with church are only with the church, not God or the word of God. I will put faith in God, but not humans who are liable to make a mistake or lie. My interpretation of God is very conceptual. Abstract even. I believe that he is more than a man floating on a big cloud. (I could go into more but I should dedicate a whole thread to that, I tie in God with what we know about the universe and apply it to theoretical physics. Its pretty cool, even of you do not believe in him) You have no problem with god? Visit http://evilbible.com and read about your god, see how great he is.

People believe in religion because they are not intelligent. They want answers, and will dis-regard all logic and science for that answer.

[PerpetualImperfexion]

Lol. There are people who believe in religion because it makes sense to them. Maybe they have had doubts but they still believe there is something out there and religion is a positive influence in their lives. Now there are others who don't. How does that make religious people mindless zombies?

Ok I exaggerated a little bit there. what I was trying to say is that they will accept anything told to them by a religious family member, a religious leader, etc. because they feel they have never been lied to. Odds are that they haven't lied about what the religion teaches but because they've been fed this story their entire life they automatically accept it.

[Can'tHelpIt]

Because it's the way they have been raised.
Also Hope and explains things that ppl don't/didn't know

But I hope that some ppeople will realize also I hate people who try to "save" others. Being atheist, lgbt, etc.

[khila]

its pretty much built into our harritage and so much pressure from parents however the real reason is that religion is something that cant be proven or disproven u just have to have faith in it. I personally think people have faith in things because well say if someone close dies "atleast their with god now" and it gives u hope i use to be religious until i met my true love...science

[JackShephard]

You have no problem with god? Visit http://evilbible.com and read about your god, see how great he is.

People believe in religion because they are not intelligent. They want answers, and will dis-regard all logic and science for that answer.

You can't just categorize people and make judgments about them. Given, I understand where someone could find a ignorant believer (in anything), that would be like me saying anyone who does not believe in some sort of God are on a high horse and believe themselves to be better than any religious person. Do I really think that? No. I do think however that you in particular may be in such a stereotype given the quoted "are not intelligent" judgment you just made. I respect what you believe. Maybe you could return the favor :)

Not everyone who believes in a god rejects logic and proven modern science. Why would someone fabricate scientific study? Thats preposterous. I do see what your saying here though, there are some people that I have ran across that will tell you that science is a lie and that it's made up. They are unwilling to look at things differently and that too bothers me. I would say that my belief in God is somewhat hybrid with scientific study.

[Smeagol]

Well, it depends. There are so many different religions and different degrees of being religious from being a fanatic to being an atheist. I believe that I identify as a pagan. I believe that the earth is sacred and needs to be protected. I believe that because, well, look at the world around us. Everything is so special. I don't think I need to invent for myself deities to worship when there is so much tangible stuff already here.

[TBJohnston]

Well, it depends. There are so many different religions and different degrees of being religious from being a fanatic to being an atheist. I believe that I identify as a pagan. I believe that the earth is sacred and needs to be protected. I believe that because, well, look at the world around us. Everything is so special. I don't think I need to invent for myself deities to worship when there is so much tangible stuff already here.

That's actually a beautiful way of looking at the world, the last two lines in particular have just brought a smile to my face. I've heard of paganism numerous times before but have never made the effort to actually look up some of their beliefs. Is there any particular branch you associate yourself with or are you a little unsure of your actual beliefs? If so I could possibly help you out there.

[joshM1996]

It's never made sense to me. There's so much evidence against it, and so little reason, but people still fool themselves into thinking their religion is true. Is it brainwashing? A simple unwillingless to recognize that their entire belief system is false? What is it that produces people like Rick Santorum, who simply won't change?

Bonus points to anyone who posts from the point of view of those who used to be similarly religious and changed their mind.

People believe in religion for different reasons, they used to believe in religion to explain why people exist, to explain the weather etc. But now we have science for that. Another reason is so they don't feel alone, so when they pray they think someone is actually listening. I'm not religious at all or I would have thought of more reasons

[Gigablue]

Please don't bump old threads. :locked: