Sure people say how religion inspires them to be good and do good, but is that enough to offset the horrible things that religion inspires?
I know that if you're poor or in jail then religion is a real comfort and is probably one of the few things you have to give you hope. And I can understand why its useful... but the worst it inspires just cannot override the horrors.
I think if people are capable of being good and doing good without religion, then religion is not fundamental for a good society and for the sake of reducing child abuse, suicide bombers, female, ethnic and gay oppression, genital mutilation (vaginal and penile), and wars it would be better if it was eradicated.
Yes, I know it helps some people but overall I think it has hurt more than it has helped. You don't need religion to not feel alone anyway, just form a closer relationship with your family and friends and you could probably achieve the same affect. I think a lot of people that turn to religion for guidance are just lost and looking for anything they feel can steer them in a certain direction. I can understand that but the sheer amount of prejudice that has stemmed directly from religious teachings such as homophobia, misogyny, xenophobia, etc. makes it not worth it imo.
