The connection between religion and morality is debated by two schools of thought. One believes they are separate concepts, while the other sees religion as the foundation of morality. Those who don’t see a correlation believe morality arises from the need for social cohesion. The other school of thought argues that religious people are more moral and that religion promotes moral acts. Examples include teachings on fidelity and charity.
The question of a connection between religion and morality can be resolved by examining the views of two separate schools of thought. One school is of the opinion that religion has nothing to do with morality because both are separate concepts. The other school of thought is of the opinion that religion is the foundation of morality and that morality cannot flourish in the absence of religion.
Those who don’t see a correlation between religion and morality believe that people who aren’t religious can still be moral. Their thesis is that morality does not derive from the teachings of any religion; rather, morality arises from the innate need and desire for social cohesion among individuals. A person with no religious affiliations knows the difference between right and wrong. Such a person will choose to do the right thing in a situation because of the need for such moral actions to keep society functional. For example, even people who do not profess any religion know that wanton killing of other individuals in society will only lead to a state of lawlessness and lawlessness.
The belief of the other school of thought is that religion and morality are intertwined because religion is the foundation of morality. The argument is that religious people are more moral and also less likely to do unbecoming acts than people without religion. This belief can be seen in some of the actions of the founding fathers of the United States. Some of these actions show that they believed that a society where religion and morality are linked would make society better. An example is the formulation of the motto of the United States: “In God We Trust”. The implication is that belief and faith in a higher being is a guiding principle in the establishment of society.
Some of the religious teachings that help establish a link between religion and morality can be seen from the teachings on fidelity and adultery. Most religious teachings do not authorize extramarital affairs; as such, religious people might exercise more restraint due to the doctrines that have been instilled in them due to their faith. The influence of religion and morals on society can also be seen from the perspective that most religions promote and encourage most moral acts. For example, nearly all religions extol their followers for being charitable to the less fortunate.
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