The usefulness of religion for humans in the present world is a complex and subjective question. It depends on various factors, including an individual's beliefs, cultural context, and personal experiences. Different people may have different perspectives on this topic. Here are some points to consider:
Spiritual and Moral Guidance: For many individuals, religion provides a source of spiritual guidance and moral values. It offers a framework for understanding the purpose of life, principles for ethical behavior, and guidelines for making decisions.
Sense of Community and Belonging: Religious communities often foster a sense of belonging, support, and social cohesion. They can provide people with a support network, especially during challenging times or life events.
Comfort and Coping: Religion can offer solace and comfort to individuals during times of grief, loss, or personal struggles. It can provide hope and a sense of purpose in difficult circumstances.
Ethical Framework: Religious teachings can contribute to the development of a moral and ethical framework for society. They can promote values such as compassion, forgiveness, and empathy.
Preservation of Culture: Religion often plays a significant role in preserving cultural heritage, traditions, and rituals, which can be important for the continuity of cultural identity.
On the other hand, there are some concerns or criticisms regarding the usefulness of religion in the modern world:
Conflict and Division: Throughout history, religion has been a factor in numerous conflicts and divisions between different groups with divergent beliefs.
Dogmatism and Intolerance: Some argue that religious beliefs can lead to dogmatism and intolerance, limiting critical thinking and acceptance of diverse perspectives.
Challenges to Progress and Science: In certain cases, religious beliefs have clashed with scientific findings and progress, leading to controversy and hindrance to certain advancements.
Lack of Empirical Evidence: Skeptics and atheists often question the empirical evidence for religious claims, leading them to view religion as unnecessary or unsupported by evidence.
It's essential to recognize that the impact of religion can vary significantly based on the specific beliefs, practices, and cultural context of different religious communities. For some individuals and societies, religion plays a crucial and positive role, while for others, it may be less relevant or present challenges. The question of religion's usefulness remains a deeply personal and philosophical one, and people may hold diverse and valid perspectives on this matter.