maladroit4u

Why Intelligent People Are Still Religious

2014-02-07

It's difficult to believe something when you are given no proof that it's true. That's the fundamental problem I have with religion: it professes beliefs that have no basis in reality other than a sacred piece of literature. I often encounter other people that agree with me and discussions on the matter end up at "But [insert mutual acquaintance here] is very devout and believes every word of the Bible, even when it contradicts accepted scientific theories. And I thought he was intelligent!" That person is often very intelligent. And that is the exact reason he is so religious.

Let me explain: intelligent people often have a penchant for being successful. They are interested in being the best at everything they attempt in life. As a result, they have a high chance of diving into devout outward faith when introduced to a religion. Often shown religion as a young person without the wisdom to ponder it deeply, a bright person launches for the first apparent sign of success. Here, that is advertising their newfound faith and being the "best" at their chosen religion.

This will sometimes stick with otherwise intelligent people for life, and cause a paradox when others try to reconcile their mental aptitude and their belief in unproven scripture.