Those who are religious overwhelmingly agree that religion gives them a sense of purpose and moral guidance. Religion also provides a social support network.
Religions often revolve around rituals and the lives of historical figures. These are transmitted through written scriptures and oral tradition. Religions have a centuries-old history. They can be a source of meaning and motivation to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Religions can also contain an undercurrent of fear. People who practice religion often worry about the consequences of their actions after death. Religions also promise rewards for following rituals.
Religions are organized and rule-based. These institutions are conservatively guarded and follow strict interpretations of the founder’s teachings. Religious institutions can also become self-serving.
Religions are usually defined as social-cultural systems. They include moral rules, sanctified places, worldviews, and designated behaviors. Some people also believe in supernatural phenomena.
People who are not religious often believe in a higher power. However, some Europeans believe that religion does not help them choose right and wrong. Moreover, some believe that there is no such spiritual force in the universe.
Religious institutions typically follow specific criteria, such as religious dress codes. They also carry out rituals to maintain their core beliefs. Moreover, religious institutions tend to follow the literal truths of sacred texts.
Religious institutions also have the power to affect health and medical care. Physicians’ beliefs about R/S often affect the type of care they provide patients. They also influence how patients cope with illness.