1. The Materialist perspective, religion is a human invention. Only the material world exists. Religion keeps people in bondage unable to be free.
2. The Functional perspective, religion is useful. Religion is the glue that holds society together. Biologically is brings people together for their common survival.
3. The Faith perspective. Erich Fromm said that humans need a stable frame of reference and religion fulfills that need. Religion gives meaning and order to what is happening. For example religion has answers as to Why we die, why we have to suffer and why is there evil.
After having read over these perspectives, what are your thoughts as to why religion exists? Do you agree or disagree with the above perspectives. would you add another perspective to the above list?After having read over these perspectives, what are your thoughts as to why religion exists? Do you agree or disagree with the above perspectives. would you add another perspective to the above list?