Historically Speaking: Did Religion Necessitate Humanity’s Survival and Development?

Introduction

Humanity’s journey through time is marked by numerous milestones, one of which is the inception of religion. For centuries, religion has been a cornerstone of human culture, philosophy, science, and knowledge. However, in the modern era, many question whether religion was indeed necessary for human survival and development. This article delves into the historical role of religion and its impact on human societies, weighing the pros and cons of this ancient institution.

Religion as a Initial Form of Philosophy and Knowledge

When we look back at the dawn of human civilization, religion was a primitive attempt at understanding the world around us. Early religions such as Hinduism, Greek mythology, and Roman polytheism laid the groundwork for speculative inquiry into nature and its mysteries. Gods and goddesses were assigned to phenomena, emotions, and knowledge, leading to the development of pantheons and natural morals. These natural morals are inherently designed to promote the species' survival through natural selection, aligning with the laws of nature.

Religion’s Role in History

While religion played a significant part in shaping history, it is often at the root of conflict and strife. Events such as the Crusades, Inquisitions, Hundred Years’ War, and the Holocaust exemplify how organized religions can exacerbate human suffering. These were not isolated incidents, but series of calamities that highlight the destructive nature of religious wars and persecution.

Impact on Science and Civilization

Some early civilizations, like India during the Vedic period, were more conducive to scientific development. The Rig Veda, for instance, demonstrates an early form of scientific inquiry. Polytheism and animism, when practiced humbly and without the quest for power and control, can be seen as precursors to natural philosophy and morality. However, when these religions were co-opted for political and control-oriented purposes, they often led to unnecessary conflict and misery.

Abrahamism and Its Disadvantages

Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, collectively known as Abrahamism, have been particularly problematic throughout human history. The historical narratives of these religions have often served to justify violence and exclusion, contributing to widespread suffering and misery. The Crusades, the Inquisition, and the Holocaust are a few examples of how these monotheistic traditions have impacted human societies in deeply negative ways.

Are Religion and Education Inextricably Linked?

In response to the question of whether religion is necessary for human survival and development, many argue that a different approach might be more effective. In my personal view, a society can thrive without religion by focusing on free, simple, and guaranteed education. This education should empower individuals to understand their natural mores and bootstrap their lifestyle based on a rational and ethical framework.

Education as a Path to Auto-Flourishing

The ultimate goal of education is to foster self-realization and auto-flourishing. By providing individuals with the tools to question and understand the world around them, education can help us lead fulfilling lives. Here are a few principles that guide this approach:

Rationality and Responsibility: We must question and understand the nature of rules and traditions. When a tradition or rule is found to be irrational, personal responsibility takes precedence over blind obedience. This ensures that we make decisions based on rational thinking rather than superstition. Guidelines: While education should promote rational thinking, it should also provide specific guidelines (Ahkaam) that can be simple, practical, and directly applicable to daily life. These guidelines ensure that we do not miss out on valuable lessons and responsibilities that we might not fully understand at the moment. Respect for Personal Autonomy: Ahkaam are not absolute commandments; they are guidelines. Individuals are encouraged to use their reasoning to understand and adhere to these guidelines. This approach respects personal autonomy and promotes a sense of self-responsibility.

Conclusion

While religion has undoubtedly played a significant role in human history, there is a growing sentiment that a more rational and scientific approach to education and ethics might better serve humanity. By focusing on free, simple, and guaranteed education, we can empower individuals to thrive and contribute positively to society, free from the prejudices and conflicts that religious dogma can foster.

In light of this, Islam, as a religion, provides a unique framework that emphasizes rationality and personal responsibility. In my personal journey, the teachings of Ahkaam have been a guiding light. These guidelines are structured to promote a balanced and ethical way of life, ensuring that individuals can lead fulfilling and responsible lives without being bound by dogmatic superstitions.

It is important to acknowledge that not all adherents of a religion behave the way the extremist groups claim. The vast majority of Muslims, especially those who practice within the Shi’a tradition, have led peaceful and normal lives, contributing positively to society through education, virtuous living, and tolerance.