How does religion influence your morality?

[Brickjectivity]

Hi everyone. I've been taking a class in moral psychology for my undergrad psych degree, and we've been talking about the ways religion can influence and shape a person's morality. I thought it would be more interesting to get a firsthand account, instead of just hearing about it in class.

So, I have a few questions if anyone wants to respond. First, how does your particular religious affiliation influence your morality? Second, do you think you'd have different moral values if you were to follow a different religion? And third, what would you consider to be your most important moral principles (IE, purity, deference to authority, loyalty, etc.). If you're comfortable with sharing your particular religious affiliation, I'd love to hear that as well.

Thanks!

1. I grew up Charismatic Christian with loving and respecting parents who nevertheless employed painful spankings occasionally. I believe that spanking were either overused or perhaps a mistake, but they still did well with loving me and respecting me. When I was young I received guidelines on what not to do based upon an evangelical dogmatic interpretation of the New Testament. I was taught what was and wasn't acceptable and began to believe it. A consistent environment and consistent rules along with a strong belief resulted in a consistent system of morals that I did not question. As I aged I diverged from 'The rules' but always from them, not from something else. I encountered the world for myself without the filter of parents and churches. Morally I did ok, but I could have done better. Some things were lacking, but its not clear whether that was due to a lack of moral training or a lack of maturity.

2. Different moral values? Many of my moral 'Values' would overlap although with a different emphasis. I think the largest difference would be if I grew up in a religion that recognized wisdom as not just coming from the Bible but from other sources as well. That may not sound like a moral value and merely an opinion, but it is a moral value. Here's how it is a moral value: My childhood religion would call anything but wisdom from the Bible 'Worldly wisdom' and therefore evil and continues to do so. For me that puts acceptance of other wisdom into the moral spectrum even if you would think it to be just a doctrinal point. What I believed in they called 'Evil', which turned it from something neither moral nor immoral into a moral value for me.

3. One thing I learned of value was a sense of responsibility for the state of the world. Partly this was bad, because it inspired guilt. Partly it was good, because it inspired me to dream about possibilities. Do not confuse emotion with morality, by the way. My strongest moral emotion is compassion, though it is a bit difficult to separate from justice. The same emotion can cause me to do more than one action. Justice/compassion is a strong feeling that can hurt people as well as help them. Emotions are that way. They are not truly moral but are merely passionate. Morality is something else.

 

[Sha'irullah]

When I was a Christian my angers and behaviors felt justified. I recall watching a march in California for the legalization of equal marriage and I began thinking why does nobody start killing gay people. I actually prayed to god to kill gay people because I felt justified by particular verses.
I really used religion and especially Christianity to justify hatred because my parents were hateful but they did not use their religion as much to justify it. I just took it a step further. I was really morally bankrupt and entirely deluded at that times but I got over it obviously.

Being an atheist(Anti-theist) I find that my actions are morally acceptable because of their relevance to people not to a metaphysical third party. I do what is right because it promotes good and happiness to as many people as possible in the realm of rationality.

 

[Triumphant_Loser]

When I was a Christian my angers and behaviors felt justified. I recall watching a march in California for the legalization of equal marriage and I began thinking why does nobody start killing gay people. I actually prayed to god to kill gay people because I felt justified by particular verses.
I really used religion and especially Christianity to justify hatred because my parents were hateful but they did not use their religion as much to justify it. I just took it a step further. I was really morally bankrupt and entirely deluded at that times but I got over it obviously.

Being an atheist(Anti-theist) I find that my actions are morally acceptable because of their relevance to people not to a metaphysical third party. I do what is right because it promotes good and happiness to as many people as possible in the realm of rationality.

I feel ya' pal. When I was a Christian , and before I came to terms with the fact that I was bi, I would constantly carry on about how much I wanted LGBT people gone, Even to the point where I wished they would all die. I finally realized just how big of a hypocrite I was, and eventually stopped lying to myself.

 

[Thief]

When I was a Christian my angers and behaviors felt justified. I recall watching a march in California for the legalization of equal marriage and I began thinking why does nobody start killing gay people. I actually prayed to god to kill gay people because I felt justified by particular verses.
I really used religion and especially Christianity to justify hatred because my parents were hateful but they did not use their religion as much to justify it. I just took it a step further. I was really morally bankrupt and entirely deluded at that times but I got over it obviously.

Being an atheist(Anti-theist) I find that my actions are morally acceptable because of their relevance to people not to a metaphysical third party. I do what is right because it promotes good and happiness to as many people as possible in the realm of rationality.

Claiming a greater morality without a religion?....good for you.

We might stand shoulder to shoulder before heaven making the same claim.

I wonder who might get the nod?

 

[lewisnotmiller]

Claiming a greater morality without a religion?....good for you.

We might stand shoulder to shoulder before heaven making the same claim.

I wonder who might get the nod?

Maybe neither of you. There are plenty of different God beliefs.

 

[Thief]

Maybe neither of you. There are plenty of different God beliefs.

And the nonbeliever has expectation?

Please expand.

 

[arthra]

First, how does your particular religious affiliation influence your morality?

First I think moral codes are provided for us as standards for our benefit and for the good of society as a whole. In the beginning we may not fully understand the benefits as we all have different backgrounds and sources but over time the benefits become clearer and we understand them as spiritually based as well as for social reasons.


Second, do you think you'd have different moral values if you were to follow a different religion?

In my view there is a lot in common among revealed religions in their moral and ethical teachings. The emphases may be different and sometimes they are presented using different symbols and language but essentially we share a lot..



And third, what would you consider to be your most important moral principles (IE, purity, deference to authority, loyalty, etc.).

I think moral principles that relate to the family are more important than many people understand because the family as a unit is essential to the larger community ... So teachings about celibacy before and after marriage are essential.



If you're comfortable with sharing your particular religious affiliation, I'd love to hear that as well.

I'm a Baha'i

 

[Tiapan]

I see religion as a play which when watched leaves us with a guiding message of wisdom.

Since the perception is what counts I have packaged my beliefs in this brief mythology.

All bow to the great Lubra

Verse 1

Each life is like a ribbon in the wind with a start and a tail.
That which is written on each thread is precious.
For some it ends too soon, while others use smaller writing.

Verse 2
Paradise is the legacy you leave your children, when you finally join the field of ribbons waving like wheat in the wind.

Verse 3
After 40 days alone in the desert wilderness of arid Central Australia, Mulga Bill was on top of Ayers Rock meditating about the Rainbow Serpent,
some bruddas were burning the bushes. Suddenly the sun was blotted out by a huge beautiful Lubra standing over him.

Saying

"You white fellas come here and leave you're cigarette butts and and stubbies lying all about, so go back and tell 'em to stop littering, or I'll come down and sit on 'em."

"No probs" he said, sincerely "I'll let 'em know to clean up their act. I promise."

She smiled, then bent down and whispered these pearls of wisdom in his ear.

Verse 4
If you want to be happy for the rest of your life, never make a pretty woman your wife.


Verse 5
Now to get on with all of your bruddas, just follow these simple rulz:
Party with your bruddas as you would have them party with you.
Respect your elders, they have wisdom you have yet to find.
Respect your children, they are your future.
Respect your land, it feeds and nurtures you.
Read as many message sticks as you can, they will broaden your knowledge and wisdom.
Do not be led astray by the evil false prophets, based on only one message stick.
I know this to be true because I am alive and they are all dead.
Do not fear death, you will have eternal life through your children.
The universe is a beautiful place, admire and enjoy it.
Take charge of your life. Think for yourself.
Eat Kangaroo, fish and veggies - Lubra's food for long life."

This is all truth, so it is perfect as only truth can be perfect,
and therefore it must qualify.

All potential followers leave me a note and I will send you my brainwashing message sticks.

Cheers

 

[lewisnotmiller]

And the nonbeliever has expectation?

Please expand.

Expand on what?

You suggested (and continually suggest) that atheists will be in for a shock at death. You're well entitled to your opinion.
It's entirely possible that your belief system is wrong AND my non-belief is wrong.

We could both be in for a shock. I don't think either of us will be, but hey, it's possible.

 

[Thief]

Expand on what?

You suggested (and continually suggest) that atheists will be in for a shock at death. You're well entitled to your opinion.
It's entirely possible that your belief system is wrong AND my non-belief is wrong.

We could both be in for a shock. I don't think either of us will be, but hey, it's possible.

As we might stand shoulder to shoulder before heaven, that does not insure mutual continuance.

We might both claim a good sense of morality, while refusing any specific religion....
but heaven will have what it shall have.
Why allow denial to walk among the angelic?

Shock?.....as in a momentary realization of consequence?
More like despair.

The angelic might leave you wherever you fell.
If there is comfort....it won't come from heaven.

But then again, you don't believe.
So the notion of life in the hereafter seems unlikely to you.
Maybe you'll get lucky and your soul will simple dissipate.
No consequence that way.

 

[Smart_Guy]

You won't believe how much is does influence my morality.

It started as simply following rules as an obligation, but little by little I realized what it really meant and then it became part of who I am. It molded me to become a good person, as I believe.

 

[Riverwolf]

Experience from one who has gone through a few religions already, but has had a few core philosophies that remained unchanged throughout.

First, how does your particular religious affiliation influence your morality?

While I was practicing Hinduism, I was far more moderate and universalist. Now, as an Asatru, I'm more pluralist than universalist and more comfortable with taking a firm stance on a given topic, even when I understand and sympathize with the stance I oppose.

Second, do you think you'd have different moral values if you were to follow a different religion?

It'd probably be more accurate to say that I'd have different aspects of my general moral code (which I allow to be influenced more by my experience than by my religion) emphasized, and others downplayed.

And third, what would you consider to be your most important moral principles (IE, purity, deference to authority, loyalty, etc.).

Pluralism and self-criticism (which is NOT, by the way, self-punishment or self-discipline. Self-criticism simply means looking at oneself and saying, "okay, where am I doing well, and where are my faults? Let's strengthen and reinforce what's doing well, and work on strengthening those faults").

If you're comfortable with sharing your particular religious affiliation, I'd love to hear that as well.

I already said above, but basically an Anglic form of Asatru, which is also known as Heathenry, Odinism, Fyrn Sithr/Forn Sidu, and might be academically referred to as Germanic Polytheism. I call it "The Old Way", which is a conceptual translation of "forn sidu" (which might literally translate to "fore side").

 

[Jainarayan]

First, how does your particular religious affiliation influence your morality?

I too have been through a couple of religions: Christianity (birth religion), then Hinduism, now Asatru (next stop: Valhalla). I don't think my morality has changed all that much through any of those three. My sense of duty and compassion seems to have intensified, however, having been drawn to Thor, who is a champion of the common man and the underdog.

Second, do you think you'd have different moral values if you were to follow a different religion?

No, I can't say I would. I believe most religions put a strong emphasis on morality. But morality is relative. As a Christian first, now Asatruar, I've had no problem being a carnivore. As a Hindu I was conflicted.

And third, what would you consider to be your most important moral principles (IE, purity, deference to authority, loyalty, etc.). If you're comfortable with sharing your particular religious affiliation, I'd love to hear that as well.

Thanks!

As I mentioned, I am Asatruar. The religion Asatru is pretty much as Riverwolf described it. I think the moral code I strive for can best be summed up by what is known as the Nine Noble Virtues:

• Courage
• Truth
• Honor
• Fidelity
• Discipline
• Hospitality
• Self Reliance
• Industriousness
• Perseverance

 

[Setepenaset]

Expand on what?

You suggested (and continually suggest) that atheists will be in for a shock at death. You're well entitled to your opinion.
It's entirely possible that your belief system is wrong AND my non-belief is wrong.

We could both be in for a shock. I don't think either of us will be, but hey, it's possible.

I saw a comic strip once where the Pope, a Rabbi and an Islamic Mullah had just died and were on their way to the Judgment. One of them (I forget which one) says "Now here's where we find out which one of us was right". Then they enter the judgment hall and waiting there to greet them are Osiris, Anubis and Thoth...

 

[Setepenaset]

Hi everyone. I've been taking a class in moral psychology for my undergrad psych degree, and we've been talking about the ways religion can influence and shape a person's morality. I thought it would be more interesting to get a firsthand account, instead of just hearing about it in class.

So, I have a few questions if anyone wants to respond. First, how does your particular religious affiliation influence your morality? Second, do you think you'd have different moral values if you were to follow a different religion? And third, what would you consider to be your most important moral principles (IE, purity, deference to authority, loyalty, etc.). If you're comfortable with sharing your particular religious affiliation, I'd love to hear that as well.

Thanks!

My religious beliefs are influenced in part by my morality, not the other way around. My religious affiliation has changed a few times, but my morality has remained the same thru all of them, so, no, religion does not appear to be a factor.

 

[lewisnotmiller]

As we might stand shoulder to shoulder before heaven, that does not insure mutual continuance.

Exactly what I said.

We might both claim a good sense of morality, while refusing any specific religion....
but heaven will have what it shall have.

Again, no problem with this. I don't believe in heaven. If I'm wrong, then there could be consequence.

Why allow denial to walk among the angelic?

All people deny things, is my point. You have your version of God, but that implicitly means you deny others. You seem fixated on the fact that I could be right or wrong. We could both be wrong. Why do you assume a binary process?

Shock?.....as in a momentary realization of consequence?
More like despair.

Phhht. I have readily owned my own thoughts, and will continue to do so. You seem to simply ignore aspects of thought that don't fit with your worldview.
You assume that there is your God, in which case you 'win', or no God, in which case we're as dead as each other. Although you make little allowance for no God.
Step outside your own worldview and consider we could BOTH be wrong. Do you allow for your own despair?

The angelic might leave you wherever you fell.
If there is comfort....it won't come from heaven.

Obfuscation, and completely unrelated to anything I've ever argued. I'm not looking for comfort from supernatural beings.

But then again, you don't believe.
So the notion of life in the hereafter seems unlikely to you.

Of course. Hence, atheist. But I am quite happy to step outside my own atheism and discuss issues. My take would be that you are locked into your own worldview. To repeat, simply, what if we are both wrong?

Maybe you'll get lucky and your soul will simple dissipate.
No consequence that way.

By all means, argue entirely from your own standpoint.
Good grief.

From my point of view, there is no 'soul'. Not in the literal sense you seem to mean it.
But let's assume there is, for a moment.

'Lucky' would be an eternal God who can weigh my soul and judge me on that.
'Unlucky' would be a God who demands belief, quite apart from how I act, or WHY I act.

I'll give your God the benefit of assuming he can see my motivations, and he'll take them into account.
Regardless, I'll live honestly.

I'm not about to 'believe' in something purely because you think that 'something' exists and will treat me based on the measure of belief.
I'll believe in something because I believe in it.

I could be wrong about your God. Or I could be right, but be wrong about the Hindu pantheon. Or be right about that but wrong about the Pagan Gods. Or be right about that, but wrong about some other form of God no-one on Earth is even aware of.

The hubris involved in assuming you know God's mind and can speak for him staggers me.

 

[lewisnotmiller]

I saw a comic strip once where the Pope, a Rabbi and an Islamic Mullah had just died and were on their way to the Judgment. One of them (I forget which one) says "Now here's where we find out which one of us was right". Then they enter the judgment hall and waiting there to greet them are Osiris, Anubis and Thoth...

:yes:

I should have gone with this version. Simpler explanation that I made. But yes, this is the exact fundamental point I was making.
Why assume a simple binary decision?

 

[lewisnotmiller]

You won't believe how much is does influence my morality.

It started as simply following rules as an obligation, but little by little I realized what it really meant and then it became part of who I am. It molded me to become a good person, as I believe.

Hey SG, this is interesting to me...

With my kids, I teach them please and thank-you, teach them treat others as they want to be treated, etc.

They're pretty young, so I kinda see it as being an obligation on them in some ways as well. They know how to act, but I doubt they really understand the 'why' part of the equation too much.
But that is really important to develop, and we'll try and reinforce that right through their lives.

I daresay my parents were similar, in that the way I acted was a non-negotiable, but it took longer to try and get me to understand why. And to a large part, the why only happens when the person begins to 'own' the moral behaviour, and feels like it's theirs, rather than imposed.

So I'm sorta hazarding a guess here that you're talking about the same thing, if a more complex version. You acted out of obligation and expectation, but over time saw value and benefit in this. At that point you start 'owning' the moral code. It becomes yours.

 

[Thief]

Exactly what I said.



Again, no problem with this. I don't believe in heaven. If I'm wrong, then there could be consequence.



All people deny things, is my point. You have your version of God, but that implicitly means you deny others. You seem fixated on the fact that I could be right or wrong. We could both be wrong. Why do you assume a binary process?



Phhht. I have readily owned my own thoughts, and will continue to do so. You seem to simply ignore aspects of thought that don't fit with your worldview.
You assume that there is your God, in which case you 'win', or no God, in which case we're as dead as each other. Although you make little allowance for no God.
Step outside your own worldview and consider we could BOTH be wrong. Do you allow for your own despair?



Obfuscation, and completely unrelated to anything I've ever argued. I'm not looking for comfort from supernatural beings.



Of course. Hence, atheist. But I am quite happy to step outside my own atheism and discuss issues. My take would be that you are locked into your own worldview. To repeat, simply, what if we are both wrong?



By all means, argue entirely from your own standpoint.
Good grief.

From my point of view, there is no 'soul'. Not in the literal sense you seem to mean it.
But let's assume there is, for a moment.

'Lucky' would be an eternal God who can weigh my soul and judge me on that.
'Unlucky' would be a God who demands belief, quite apart from how I act, or WHY I act.

I'll give your God the benefit of assuming he can see my motivations, and he'll take them into account.
Regardless, I'll live honestly.

I'm not about to 'believe' in something purely because you think that 'something' exists and will treat me based on the measure of belief.
I'll believe in something because I believe in it.

I could be wrong about your God. Or I could be right, but be wrong about the Hindu pantheon. Or be right about that but wrong about the Pagan Gods. Or be right about that, but wrong about some other form of God no-one on Earth is even aware of.

The hubris involved in assuming you know God's mind and can speak for him staggers me.

Staggered then you are.

I'm not real big on Pascal's wager.....but....
I believe in Something Greater than myself.

Alignment would then be prudent.

(if there is life after death and no One in charge.....you stand up into chaos......good luck)

 

[lewisnotmiller]

Staggered then you are.

You think you know God's mind and you speak for him? That's one of the more unusually large claims I've heard in my time here.

I'm not real big on Pascal's wager.....but....
I believe in Something Greater than myself.

As is your right. I have no issue with that.

Alignment would then be prudent.

I'm not sure who you are suggesting I align with, or even if it's my alignment you are talking about, so I'm just gonna let that slide.

(if there is life after death and no One in charge.....you stand up into chaos......good luck)

You still seemed completely locked into this binary concept you have of God.