Discussion why does one believe in religion more than science

[Darkover]

People often believe in religion more than science because religion addresses emotional, existential, and community needs that science doesn't inherently fulfill.

Fear of the Unknown: Religion provides answers to life's biggest mysteries, like what happens after death, why suffering exists, or the purpose of life. These answers can be deeply comforting, especially when science offers no definitive solutions to these questions.

Hope and Reassurance: Belief in a higher power or an afterlife can make life's struggles feel purposeful and less frightening.

Early Indoctrination: Many people are introduced to religion as children when they are most impressionable. This ingrained belief often becomes a core part of their identity.
Community and Belonging: Religion often provides a sense of belonging and shared purpose. People may prioritize these social benefits over the empirical nature of science.


Religious explanations are often easier to understand and more emotionally resonant than scientific theories, which can be abstract or complex (e.g., quantum mechanics, evolution).
"God created the universe" is a simpler concept than the intricate details of the Big Bang.

Religion provides a clear set of rules and moral guidelines, often framed as divine commands. Science doesn't inherently provide a moral structure, leaving people to navigate ethical questions on their own.

Eternal Punishment/Reward: Many religions emphasize consequences like heaven or hell, which can strongly motivate belief, even if it's out of fear rather than conviction.

Complexity and Elitism: Some people see science as inaccessible or something only "experts" understand.
Conflicts with Personal Beliefs: Scientific theories, like evolution or the Big Bang, sometimes challenge religious teachings, leading people to reject science in favor of their faith.
Mistrust of Institutions: Misinformation, historical abuses, or politicization can make people skeptical of science and more inclined to trust religion.

While science excels at explaining how things work, it often doesn't address why. For example:
Why does the universe exist at all?
What is the ultimate purpose of life?

 

[Forever Sleep]

I think that's an excellent explanation. I think a lot of it is a comfort thing in a way. Kind of odd when you consider the fire and brimstone God of the Old Testament. I think people have watered down religions to make them more user friendly.

But basically, I think we're alone and frightened. Whereas religion or, the sugar coated religion that a lot of people prefer, tries to reassure us that we'll be ok or at least, it will all be ok in the end. Scientists are more like- we're not sure. It could very well all end horribly! That's not all that comforting.

That's what I find weird though. How do religious people align what they experience in this world with a God that is loving, nurturing or even fair? There doesn't seem to be much evidence of that to me. That's what I find so bizarre. That there's such a massive discord between God's nice guy image and reality. (In my opinion.) So- for me- it's more like- why do you actually find religion and the possibility that God exists comforting?

I also agree that upbringing likely has a lot to do with it. Not only do we learn this stuff while we are the most impressionable (in a lot of cases,) we maybe also associate religion with nostalgia, respect for our parents and heritage. What fascinates me more is why some people go on to reject it and others don't.