Recently, I’ve been contemplating a considerable amount concerning religion. Specifically, the power of prayer and how one can achieve absolution of sins by doing nothing more than praying. See my previous post for more of that. While contemplating that subject, something dawned on me. What if part of the reason for the decline of participating in organized religion is due to the onset of psychological therapy?
Think about it for a moment. Therapy can take the place of prayer. If you’re going to a therapist to work out your mental issues, you’re in effect replacing prayer with talking to a therapist about your problems. Historically, such conversations were with clergy. With more and more psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists available and being utilized, one doesn’t feel the need to seek religion.
I believe it’s an interesting and thought provoking angle on the decline of religious practice in western culture.
NOTE: I knew I couldn’t be the only one considering the above….
https://bill-moran.com/faith/therapy-replaced-religion/