The Ecology of Religion

The Faith Instinct - some points raised by chapter 9,
“The Ecology of Religion”

Religions have always been concerned with reproduction and management of natural resources. Religious beliefs are so compelling, and fear of divine punishment is so strong, that people throughout history have accepted the gods’ rules about reproduction. Most if not all religions regulate marriage, and religious decrees can adjust a community’s population to the circumstances.

There seems to be a clear relationship between religious rules and a society’s environment. Economic factors, such as affluence and education, have been seen as the primary influences on birthrate; but religious rules may also have a strong influence. (For example, Christian moral codes about women, fertility and infant life helped the faith grow.) Agrarian societies can attain better living standards by managing fertility. (For instance, monasteries in the middle ages decreased fertility.)

When religions go wrong: Religion is conducive to survival because its doctrines embody society’s collective wisdom, giving leaders the authority for certain actions. The system works well in general, but not in every instance. (For example, the Jim Jones and Heaven’s Gate cults.) These episodes also demonstrate the extraordinary hold that religion can exert on people’s minds. Committed group behavior is clearly valuable when harnessed to rational goals, as it is for the most part.

Religion and war: Religion also helps coordinate societies control and distribute natural resources. (For instance, the Maring tribe in east-central New Guinea provides a striking example of how religion can be applied to managing resources.) In modern economies, religion is no longer such a comprehensive guide to daily life; time and place are now seen as predominantly secular, with the sacred often pushed into a tiny corner. Yet religion continues to play many roles – and no role is more important than in preparing people for war.