Religious belief offers powerful incentives for moral conduct—such as divine reward (e.g., heaven) and punishment (e.g., hell). For many, this system encourages accountability, especially in situations where secular consequences are absent.
Religious belief offers powerful incentives for moral conduct—such as divine reward (e.g., heaven) and punishment (e.g., hell). For many, this system encourages accountability, especially in situations where secular consequences are absent.
Acting morally due to fear of divine punishment may reflect obedience, not ethical virtue. True morality requires internal motivation, such as empathy or rational reflection—not just fear-based compliance.
Studies show that atheists and agnostics often score high on measures of charity, honesty, and prosocial behavior. See here.
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