Does Religion Have a Direct Impact on How We Live Our Lives?

The laws and social norms of society have deep roots to the various religions of the world. If the world did not have any religion, would we still view crimes in the same light? It is possible because of the human nature. If there was no religion, would there be constant world piece, or would greed get the best of us? Here is a look at some laws which have been inspired by religion, followed by a discussion of what the world would be like if there was no religion.

Laws against Murder

The laws against murder come from one of the most popular parts of the Bible, the Ten Commandments. This commandment tells us we should not murder. If there was no religion would this still be a law? It might be because as part of our human nature we have a part of us which is compassionate towards others.

Laws against Theft

Of course everyone knows it is wrong to steal, but where did this perception begin? It began in the Old Testament, when God gave Moses the Ten Commandments. God gave the command that we should not steal. If the Ten Commandments did not exist would people take from others or would we all refrain from taking from our fellow citizens?

Laws against Perjury

In the courts, there are laws against perjury and giving false testimony. These laws come from the same Ten Commandments. God has instructed us to not bear false testimony against our neighbors. In reality, we should never lie about or to anyone regardless of the consequences. How would the lack of religion change our criminal justice system? Perhaps, nobody would be able to be imprisoned or convicted of a crime, or anyone could be convicted of a crime regardless if he or she actually committed the crime.

World without Religion

The world has many conflicts and the central root of the conflicts is religion. If all nations could come to a central belief in one religion, perhaps world peace would be imminent. Unfortunately, Islam and Christianity, which have similar belief systems, have condemned each other. It is because of the clashes between the two religions that radical Islamic followers choose to wage a Holy War, also known as a Jihad, against the United States and other western nations.