Beauty in the Dirt

The debate on the benefits of religion versus the harms of religion is as poignant and passionate today as it ever has been. Some would argue that religion itself is inherently evil and the root cause of mass destruction, with genocide and oppression at the top of their list of examples. On the opposite side of the spectrum are those who adamantly argue that without the framework of religion, people would have no moral compass at all. Which view is right? Would the world be better off with or without religion? I am in the somewhat unique position to have an abundance of experience in the religious world, complete with a theological degree and twenty-seven years of involvement in Christian ministry, and yet have ultimately walked away from religion. Despite walking away from religious belief personally, I still believe there is enough value within religion to consider it useful within certain frameworks. Let's explore the benefits of a world that retains religion, beginning with sci