Is Religion or Science More Dangerous?

As long as religion and science exist, man has asked the question, which one is more dangerous? However, over the centuries man has figured out that the answer is not that simple. Many aspects are involved that have to be taken into consideration. Some scientists argue that religion can cause more harms, but on the other side believers of many religions point their fingers toward science as being the ultimate danger. Despite the benefits of religion and science, they both can be equally dangerous because they can be destructive, abuse their power and can harm uneducated people.

Although religion can be very dangerous, it has many benefits for mankind. Authentic forms of religion offer hope and are a force for positive change. Through religious ideas and commitments, endless numbers of individuals are inspired to go beyond self-interests in pursuit of higher values. Throughout history, religion has brought out the noblest and best in human beings. Take, for instance, all the humanitarian relief organizations into consideration, which respond to natural disaster, wars and poverty. These institutions are usually one of the first to respond in crisis and they are in for the long haul in many

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The crusades of the European Christians during the eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth centuries are just one example. Being lower ranked soldiers, they are commanded by higher ranked officers to participate in the experiments. Fear and insecurity of normal people help the leaders along to abuse their power (Kimball 1). Atheists dread the moment of death because all that is waiting for them is a casket and the cold ground. It is proven that religious people are healthier and live longer because their stress level is lower than that of an atheist.

Furthermore, religion and science can be exceptionally harmful if they abuse their power. One of many incidents happens in the US Army in 1958 when soldiers are lured into an experiment involving LSD under false pretenses. In addition, science can be very harmful to the environment. The pharmaceutical corporation putting this drug on the market is more concerned about making a profit than ensuring that the drug is safe to be taken by people. Additionally, science gives knowledge about this world, how it functions, and how this knowledge can be used to make life on earth easier. She exposes, how in certain Islamic countries, especially in Africa, religious practices require the dangerous circumcision of females. In the last century, science finds numerous cures for many diseases. Another example is the Mountain Meadow Massacre in 1857, when members of the Latter -Day - Saints Church (Mormons) kill white emigrants, including women and children, in Utah. In some underdeveloped Islamic countries, for instance, numerous Muslim parents are not educated very well and live under the poverty line. Another example for forced participation in medical experiments happens 1932 in China.

Approximate Word count = 2849
Approximate Pages = 11 (250 words per page double spaced)

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