12 of 33

Write now Article Tools

The thought that ethics are dependent on a religious foundation is truly an arcane perspective. Religion has always been about control. The first religions were founded to explain the natural world around us, and to set up a system of right and wrong that could be easily explained to the people as a whole. As religion advanced, it became more about control, and since religious leaders were generally the only educated people in most areas, they had an easy time influencing the thoughts and beliefs of the common man. While many religions can provide a good foundation for leading an ethical life, religion is not a necessary part of an ethical life. And, at times, religion has been a justification for very unethical behavior (the Crusades, jihad, and many hate crimes). Religion can have a negative impact on ethics, depending on how one interprets their chosen religious text, and what religious leaders they choose to believe.

It is sometimes easier to lead an ethical life without a religious foundation, as you are more likely to listen to both logic and your own instincts if you have not been indoctrinated into a belief system that may or may not have an ethical basis. Many ethical decisions can be based on "gut instinct". Instincts in many people are repressed (partly due to religion and "sin"), but if people learned to listen to themselves instead of other people, making ethical and "moral" decisions would often be much easier, and lacking emotional conflict.

Learn more about this author, Cameron Chapman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Does a lack of a religious foundation diminish ethics??
We want to hear your view. Write now!