Religion in the 21st Century

**gaelic cowboy** · 10-31-2013, 21:36

Originally Posted by HoreTore

If I was to summarize all religions in the world, it would be something along the lines of "take are of the other people in your community, do not only think of yourself". At a fundamental level, all the religions from Abraham to Confucius is about caring for others than yourself. Historically, we have therefore seen that tasks like caring for the poor and maintaining law has been given to religious institutions.

Well, except for one religion. The newest one, Scientology, breaks with this completely. It is a self-centered religion, based on taking care of yourself rather than taking care of your neighbors. Those associated with Scientology will highlight how it has benefited themselves. A Christian missionary, for example, will focus on how his religion has helped others.

Is this is sign of a change in religion, a switch to a 21st century "me-me-me"-mentality?

On the me me me thing sure couldnt the same be said of buddhism an its ancient.

**HoreTore** · 10-31-2013, 21:50

Originally Posted by gaelic cowboy

On the me me me thing sure couldnt the same be said of buddhism an its ancient.

I don't think so.

**gaelic cowboy** · 10-31-2013, 22:53

Originally Posted by HoreTore

I don't think so.

It's perfect for celebrities and the like, sure they just love the emphasis on inner this and blah blah that. Reality stars, actors, musicians and various z list celebrities can often be in love with themselves and buddhism lets em indulge in a religion of the self.

Buddhism has been packaged just like all religions are.

**HoreTore** · 10-31-2013, 22:55

Originally Posted by gaelic cowboy

It's perfect for celebrities and the like sure they just love the emphasis on inner this and blah blah that.

Buddhism has been packaged just like all religions are.

That's the new age nonsense-version of buddhism, not the one practiced in the jungles of India by Adbi the Beggar Boy...

**gaelic cowboy** · 10-31-2013, 23:05

Originally Posted by HoreTore

That's the new age nonsense-version of buddhism, not the one practiced in the jungles of India by Adbi the Beggar Boy...

and Catholism is the same in Ireland as it is in say the Phillipines

**HopAlongBunny** · 10-31-2013, 23:31

You could look at it as the provision of services.
The welfare state has supplanted religion in the provision of charitable services and health care.
Religion, at least in the wealthier societies is pushed to the margin; no longer a crucial pipeline to material health and welfare.
The new mantra is "self" actualization and fulfillment; the old religions had emphasis in other areas (while not completely excluding this facet)
The deification of the state may supplant religion as the provider of welfare; the corporation as the channel to material well being; the new religion is "self"actualization.