Effects of Religion

The first effect organized religion has had on society in past history was brain washing which lead to suicide.

Back in 1978, Jim Jones a Christian religious leader here in the United States, convinced followers to relocate to Guyana, South America. Jones's influence over his followers was so powerful he was able to persuade his followers to commit a mass suicide by drinking a mixture of cyanide and sedatives, leaving 914 dead, 276 of which were children. Jim Jones had preached to his followers the lives for which they were currently living was bound and that happiness could not be found here on Earth but in heaven and that he could lead them this place of happiness. Due to having such authority, and earning individual trust as a religious leader, this event is known as one of the largest mass religious suicides in history (BBC, 1978).

The second effect organized religion has had on society is the offering of support.

In 1996, a Christian group came together and formed a non-profit organization called C.A.S.T., or (Christian Amputee Support Group) that offers support to individuals adult and children who are amputees caused by disease or accidents. This Christian support group offers: personal trainers that can help individuals overcome their disabilities, friendship in that time of need, support to family members, medical services, financial help, prayer, or just an ear to listen. The Christian support group helps through the power of religion (Prater, 2008).

References

BBC. (1978). 1978: Mass suicide leaves 900 dead. Retrieved July 3, 2008, from http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/november/18/newsid_2540000/2540209.stm

Prater, D. (2008). Life Styles: Christian group offers amputees support. Retrieved July 3, 2008, from http://www.oanow.com/oan/lifestyles/leisure/article/christian_group_offers_amputees_support/6625/