Is religion the ultimate chain letter?

Schuhart

I had one of those chain emails the other day and, for whatever reason, was slow to recognise what it was until I was there reading how I would die in three days if I didn’t pass it on to six people, etc, etc, at which point I deleted it. (This was a fortnight ago – looks like one less paranormal phenomenon that needs to be investigated.)

I don’t think there’s anyone one explanation for religion, and simple group identity is a strong factor in its persistence. But I thought I’d just throw this thought out to see if it sparks any thoughts.

Is religion the ultimate chain letter?

Scofflaw

I recommended this book before on another thread:

Bob Altemeyer's - The Authoritarians

The author is an Associate Professor in Psychology, and has been studying group-think, and the mindset of the "authoritarian follower" - the people who believe this stuff - for nearly 40 years. I highly recommend it.

cordially,
Scofflaw

Zillah

Schuhart wrote:

Is religion the ultimate chain letter?

Yes. Thats the basis of the entire meme theory of religion.

MrB

Please read this religious text carefully, it may save your [immortal]life!

[…Long boring personal account cut out because I could not be bothered to make one up…]

If you say 3 prayers everyday and forward this religious text to 10 other people within 1 week (7 days) you will be granted eternal life in haven.

WARNING!!! If you do not forward this religious text to 10 people within 1 week(7 days) or do not say 3 prayers every day, you will burn in hell for all eternity!!! So remember to forward this text to everyone you know!!

(I just couldn't resist the obvious joke )

lucernarian

I got a text like that not too long ago. It would be ironic allright if someone read that while driving and ended up dead in the ensuing accident...:o