Paradigm Shift

I do not underestimate the value of religion in the development of human civilization. I do recognize the great influence that the many great world religions had exerted and continue to exert in the shaping of our society. Religion, particularly organized religion, has been the most stable institution in human history. Religion has inspired arts, architecture, literature and education. Religion has inspired the construction of the most lasting monuments such as the Parthenon, the pyramids of Egypt, the Mayan temples, and the great basilica of Hagia Sophia.


Religion has inspired great symphonies. Religion has sustained and made society more cohesive. Religion preserved ancient wisdom and knowledge. For many centuries, the organized religions were the only bastion of human knowledge. Organized religion prevented the total disintegration of civilization and extinction of classical knowledge. This was especially true during the Dark Ages.

Organized religion had been the supreme sovereign of divided political territories. The Roman Catholic Church, for instance, had been the unquestionable supreme political authority during the middle ages. On the other hand, the Moslem sultans had created empires that lasted for many centuries. Organized religion had been the most prominent exponent of order, justice and education.

Religion had been the beacon of hope for millions of people. However, in spite of all these, religion also gave people reasons to oppress and kill other people. Religion has been the main reason for the many atrocities in history. Religion was the main driving force for the Aztec human sacrifices, Christendom Crusades, the Inquisition, and terrorist attacks.

Religion unites but it only unites one group of people against another group of people. Religion educates but it only educates based on its tenets, all other contrary doctrines and ideas are deemed irrelevant or heretical.

Religion capitalizes on people’s fears and hopes. Religion exploits. Religion prevents the mind to think freely. Religion prevents progress. Religion is now obsolete and needs to be replaced by a better paradigm.