My Personal View on Religion

Hello! My name is Sherry Lin. I am a sophomore majoring in graphic design. I grew up with little religious exposure; I grew up without a religion, did not practice any religious traditions such as going to church, and was never directed by my parents on what or who to believe in. My parents are not religious themselves so it was hardly ever talked about in my household. It was not until high school when I was introduced to various types of religion out there such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism.

Today, I am an atheist. I do not believe in the existence of a higher power and I look towards science and nature as the answer. For example, I believe that the universe began with the explanation of the Big Bang Theory and that there is no afterlife—we simply cease to exist. I am taking this class to essentially broaden my world knowledge and not be ignorant of religious practices. Religion is a significant part of human society. It dominates many aspects of culture and constitutes for many people’s way of thinking and decisions in life. Therefore, I think it would be beneficial to study this aspect of life. The only religion I am familiar with is Christianity as it is the most prominent religion around my surroundings.

Due to my minimal knowledge of religions in general, I am interested in learning more about the major religions that are widely practiced around the world today.Prior to the reading, I thought that human beings in all cultures and traditions have had religious beliefs because we naturally strive to find an answer and solution for everything. God tends to act as an answer for many. We seek comfort, ask for requests, and thank someone of higher power. Religion also aids in uniting people with similar beliefs, providing a common and shared ideal among humans that allow us to bond together.

In addition, religion is a form of hope. When nothing else is in one’s control or power, they pray to a god or gods for help. I still think that what I thought is true after the reading, but my thoughts are now more enhanced. According to Prothero, religion plays the role as a driving force for the way people choose to act. Religion initiates people to act morally just and correct and to also initiate evil intentions and motives; it is an explanation for our behavior. Religion provides a set of morals and ideals to abide by to make one feel like they are doing good to the world. In doing so, it allows them to have a purpose in life. In a chaotic and imperfect world, religious goals act as a solution to a problem. As an example, Prothero refers to Buddhism where the problem is suffering and nirvana is the solution. This provides balance in our lives.

I think it is important to note that the way someone practices religion is based on their personal perspective. Some may take the rituals to the extreme whereas others may solely practice certain aspects of the religion.