Alex’s Heresies – embracing a physical reality

“What is a religion?”

“What is being religious?”

… are very contentious questions especially among philosophers of religion.

I have floated the idea that it is something to do with seeing intentionality and purpose in our world where a naturalist would see none. A naturalist sees a pattern whereas a “religionist” sees a purpose. I saw god(s), heaven, hell, spirits as outcomes from that difference. Instead of claims of great revelatory insight, I got a rejection and indifference from friends and class and lecture attendees!

Here, in Australia, the vast major of people operate their everyday lives as naturalists even if they hold strong religious feelings. That’s how we work and live together.

So, what is seeing the world through a “religious lens”?

1. There is something more than the physical world as specified by the sciences. Call it the “more” (from William James).
2. Unlike the transitory nature of the physical world, the “more” is seen as permanent and unchanging, providing the “bedrock” of the world and our place in that world. The “more” provides structure, continuity and purpose to all reality and meaning to people’s lives as part of that reality. The “more” is taken as pre-eminent, overarching the physical world. It is revered as something fundamentally more important.
3. Commonly the “more” is seen as having a consciousness that willed our physical world into existence and maintains its ongoing existence
4. Religious beliefs, doctrines and practices are seen as human attempts to mediate with the “more” and therefore they are considered foundational to a person’s ultimate well-being. Most religions provide teachings and moral exemplars on leading lives in harmony with the “more”.
5. Many attempt to “sharpen” their religious lens by objectifying and personalising the “more” with well-defined god or gods; sacred objects and locations; sacred texts; and sacred ceremonies.

Alex McCullie