How Does Religion Influence Society

Religion has played a key role in the development of society and the upbringing of our ancestors. Freud asserts, “Religion has contributed much towards the taming of the asocial instincts” (Freud, 1989). Mankind is the top of the food change; only nature instills fear in the heart of man. Religion seeks to redefine nature as the force of God, in order to recreate nature as comprehensible and less intimidating. It brings society values away from instant gratification and strives to redefine society’s norms. The varied aspects of the structures of different religions have allowed society to become governed by tradition and morals instead of fear and animalistic instincts.

God is the ultimate omniscient father figure that has the power to override people’s futures and nature’s course. The existence of God overcomes the overwhelming nature of free will, loneliness, and death and provides a more appreciative attitude towards society’s regulations. The laws of religion are similar to society’s laws, “except they are maintained by a supreme court of justice with incomparably more power and consistency” (Freud, 1989).

Religion provides comfort and solace for those who are in mourning. Death loses its terror through the existence of heaven

Ministers make the most ideal conduits through their extensive training in morality and humility. They are primed for their role of spreading knowledge and are well protected from succumbing to the dangers of power misuse. In the past, religious leaders have “exercised the strongest possible influence on civilization” (Freud, 1989). Many succumbed to the power and their actions have forever maimed the reputation and authenticity or religion. Due to the past indiscretions of past religious leaders, ministers hold a decreased amount of power and influence and are now only able to positively influence society’s