Posted by fachad on September 18, 2003, at 12:58:59
In reply to Re: I could spend hours responding to each item... » fachad, posted by Eddie Sylvano on September 18, 2003, at 9:05:11
> Do you think that it's the stories people believe about the nature and purpose of their existence that keeps them from depression?
I think it can work either way - the stories people believe about the nature and purpose of existence are often the cause of depression.
Religious beliefs that are absolute, and include a negative picture of human nature (humans are sinners, an abomination in the eyes of a god or gods) can lead to negative self image and feelings of guilt and worthlessness.
>I have to wonder how many religious people truly believe the things that they report.
Well, some do and many just don't question things that much.
>I know that studies support the idea that religion helps people live longer. What about it works?
Maybe it is the fear of the wrath of an angry god that keeps them in line. You are less likely to indulge in life shortening vices if you think a god is going to eternally torture and punish you for doing it. That could explain why religious people live longer.
poster:fachad
thread:260543
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030917/msgs/261376.html