Happiness: Soul - Organized Religion

One can't ignore the empirical evidence suggesting that people who are religious seem to recover more quickly from traumatic life events; whether it is losing a child, or recovering from surgery.  And seem, overall, to live healthier, happier lives.

At the same time, I have serious reservations concerning organized religion, based on my own experience; as well borne out by the record of history which includes such atrocities as The Crusades, The Inquisition, and more recently, 9/11, which were all instigated by some aspect or faction of organized religion, in the name of God.

Many people try to differentiate between religion and spirituality.  That is, there is spirituality in religion; but a spiritual connection can exist in the absence of religion.

Let's look first at why religion, and those who adhere to some form of a group practice seem to be happier and healthier:

1) Many religious groups prohibit extra-marital sex, encourage certain dietary practices (such as vegetarianism), prohibit smoking and drinking, etc., as part of their religious practice.  Consequently, members who adhere to these practices live a lower risk life style for certain diseases.

2) Many religious groups prohibit divorce and promote a strong family life. We've already looked at the importance of family life and stability to emotional and physical health.  So, if people can make it work, and adhere to these practices, there are happiness benefits.

3) Every religion of which I am aware has a common message in looking after their own (and sometimes others).  So there is a community of support and caring inherent in belonging to a religious group.  Additionally, there is a commonly understood system of belief and set of behavioural expectations that doesn't require explaining or communicating.  That's got to be relief.

4) Organized religion, almost by definition, is a group activity.  There is a sense of identity, of solidarity; often identified with a time and place (i.e. Saturday at the temple).  There have been many studies done about the positive effects of group singing, chanting, dancing, marching.  The psychology of groups is a powerful entity.  And to belong to one, taps into that energy and power.

5) Organized religion comes with a set of practices, and explanations for most things.  Not everyone is a thinker.  Not everyone is curious.  Many people just want to get on with life.  To have a ready-made formula appeals to many people.  And I'm certain it is a stress reliever for many, not to be always questioning.  "Just follow the rules and you'll be okay."

[It is in fact, my suspicion that most "happyists" are not thinkers or questioning persons.]

6) And finally, the actual belief systems of religion create meaning and purpose in life and in death...and in all that comes between...and after.