Religion is Not about God: How Spiritual Traditions Nurture

Religion is Not about God: How Spiritual Traditions Nurture our Biological Nature and What to Expect When They Fail

Thousands of religious traditions have appeared over the course of human history but only a relative few have survived. Some speak of a myriad of gods, others of only one, and some recognize no gods at all. Volumes have been written attempting to prove the existence or non-existence of supernatural being(s). So, if religion is not about God, then what is it about? In this provocative book, Loyal Rue contends that religion, very basically, is about us. Successful religions are narrative (myth) traditions that influence human nature so that we might think, feel, and act in ways that are good for us, both individually and collectively. Through the use of images, symbols, and rituals, religion promotes reproductive fitness and survival through the facilitation of harmonious social relations. Drawing on examples from the major traditions-Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism-Rue shows how each religion, in its own way, has guided human behavior to advance the twin goals of personal fulfillment and social coherence. As all faiths are increasingly faced with a crisis of intellectual plausibility and moral relevance, this book presents a compelling and positive view of the centrality and meaning of religion. Loyal Rue, two-time Templeton Award winner, is a professor of philosophy and religion at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.
Country USA
Brand Rutgers University Press
Manufacturer Rutgers University Press
Binding Paperback
UnitCount 1
EANs 9780813539553
ReleaseDate 0000-00-00

Country	USA
Brand	Rutgers University Press
Manufacturer	Rutgers University Press
Binding	Paperback
UnitCount	1
EANs	9780813539553
ReleaseDate	0000-00-00

Religion is Not about God: How Spiritual Traditions Nurture our Biological Nature and What to Expect When They Fail

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