Talking religion is like pouring gasoline on this smoldering heap we call ‘Great Debates’, and although I consider discussion of theology to be completely futile - I do still have some interest in topic of organized religion.
Specifically, its sociological implications. I remember years ago reading the Foundation series by Asimov, and one of the things that stuck most in my mind was the use of religion by the early technocracy to control the more backwards planets. The specific phrase that stuck in my mind was a comment by some viceroy or chancellor or whomever who noted that ‘religion has always been a stabilizing influence in every culture’.
Apparently the political and technical elite saw religion as a tool - and only a tool - used to cleverly curb mass hysteria and all associated problems (riot, war, destruction of property etc.)
Does this same elite see it this way today? Do you?
(Theists, please contribute but do not hijack the thread).