Question

“The major religions of the world have achieved their success largely because they offer a satisfying theodicy or explanation for eternal human problems, such as suffering, death and the meaning of life.” – Ian Robertson

With respect to the given statement, justify any four similar impacts that religion can have on human beings.

Answer 1

1. Religion conserves the value of life by making humans view it as meaningful.
2. It explains individual suffering and provides a rationale for those experiences, thereby, satisfying the anxiety.
3. It acts as the source of strength and inspires human beings to navigate through the most difficult situations in life.
4. It acts as an agent of social control, disciplines human instinct, therefore, establishing order.
5. Priestly functions are performed by religious leaders, leading to stability in society.
6. Religion promotes welfare by teaching human beings to be kind and compassionate to others.
7. It provides recreation.
8. Religion enhances self-importance as it enables humans to view themselves as the superior and favoured creation of God.