The Impact of Religion on Civilization: A Thought Experiment

Speculating on an alternate historical timeline without religion can paint a starkly different picture of human civilization. Many argue that if religion had not played a significant role, the world might be more advanced in various aspects, including exploration, mental health, and societal structures.

Without the Christian Church: Lost Opportunities

It's tempting to imagine a world where the significant advancements offered by the Christian Church had never occurred. According to this perspective, we might have already colonized planets around other stars, drastically reducing the prevalence of mental illnesses caused by societal repression, and ensuring more widespread financial prosperity and happiness for the general populace. The influence of the Church in fostering divisions such as the "divine right of kings" might not have existed, leading to a more equitable distribution of power and resources.

Is Religion Inherently Evil?

Controversially, some argue that organized religion (and even non-organized beliefs) are fundamentally about control and manipulation. These systems often coerce individuals, leading to detrimental effects on society. Religion, in this view, is not an innocent or even essential part of human life, but rather a tool for oppression and stagnation.

Society Without Religion: A Dismal Future

On the contrary, history suggests that those societies with religious institutions tend to be more advanced. Religion often promotes social cohesion and innovation, acting as a megaphone for moral and ethical standards. Without religion, or its equivalent, societies would be less likely to cooperate and thrive collectively.

The Role of Religion in Civilization: Building Blocks of Society

Much credit goes to religion for shaping the early foundations of Western civilization. For example, Thomas Woods' book, How the Catholic Church Built Western Civilization, highlights how the Catholic Church contributed to advancements in science, human rights, and other integral aspects of society. The presence of religious institutions provided a framework that allowed for significant societal progress and stability.

The Bloody Path of a Religion-Free World

In the absence of religion, the human condition might have taken a darker turn. Without the unifying force of common beliefs and practices, society would likely fracture into numerous, small groups. Each of these groups (or 'tribelets') would be constantly at war with one another, leading to high levels of violence and suffering. Research suggests that up to 60% of male deaths could be attributed to violence, while up to 20% of pregnancies might result from rape, leading to a deeply disturbed and disjointed society.

Religion as a Unifying Force

Religion serves a crucial role in allowing larger populations to exist harmoniously. By providing a communal identity and shared ethical code, it helps individuals transcend the limitations set forth by biological confines such as the Dunbar number, which suggests that humans can maintain stable social relationships with no more than around 150 individuals.

Therefore, while the mere existence of religion can be a double-edged sword, its positive impacts on human society cannot be overstated. Religion provides a catalyst for moral and societal development, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect that might otherwise be missing in a more individualistic and fragmented world.

In conclusion, the impact of religion on human civilization has been profound and multifaceted. Whether seen as a tool for control or a bulwark for societal progress, religion has played a pivotal role in shaping the world as we know it today. The absence of such a system might lead to a dark and chaotic future, where the unity and progress seen today might become a mere memory.