Often misunderstood by the general public, religion is an increasingly important part of our social fabric. It has a role in economic development, community support, and social stability.
Religious people tend to be happier and more satisfied than those who are not religious, according to many studies. They also cope better with crises and experience greater longevity.
But the practice of religion is a complex one, and there are several pitfalls to be aware of.
1. The concept of religion has a long history and is very complicated, with scholars often failing to agree on any one definition.
2. The meaning of religion has been shifted in different ways over time, and the question of what type of social practice it refers to is now completely convoluted.
3. The concept of religion is multidimensional and has an ethereal essence.
4. Religion is a complex that evolves over time, and changes with culture.
5. Religion reflects social reality on the ground.
6. Religion has a range of functions for society, ranging from promoting social inequality to facilitating conflict and hostility.
7. Religion is a social phenomenon that has been studied for over two thousand years.
A few centuries ago, a French philosopher called Blaise Pascal offered a foolproof argument for religious commitment: If the existence of God was minutely possible, then it would be a mathematically rational choice to be committed to that belief.