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Full Idea
The four standard explanations given for religion are that it provides answer, that it gives comfort, that it makes for social order, and that it rests on mere superstition.
Gist of Idea
Religion gives answers, comforts, creates social order, and panders to superstition
Source
A.C. Grayling (What is Good? [2003], Ch.4)
Book Ref
Grayling,A.C.: 'What is Good? The Best Way to Live' [Phoenix 2003], p.83
A Reaction
All four of these could be correct, though the first and fourth would be incompatible if religion gives correct answers. Why religion begins might be not the same as the reason why it continues.
| 7809 | In an honour code shame is the supreme punishment, and revenge is a duty [Grayling] |
| 7818 | In Greek mythology only heroes can go to heaven [Grayling] |
| 7819 | Religion gives answers, comforts, creates social order, and panders to superstition [Grayling] |
| 7817 | To make an afterlife appealing, this life has to be denigrated [Grayling] |
| 7823 | Lucretius was rediscovered in 1417 [Grayling] |
| 7824 | If suicide is lawful, but assisting suicide is unlawful, powerless people are denied their rights [Grayling] |