David Hume believes that both polytheism and monotheism are born out of human fear and insecurity; yet he condemns each for different shortcomings. Polytheism, out of its tolerance for different thinking, consents to corrupt ideas and practices and offers immoral role models. On the contrary, it is socially beneficial since it tolerates diversity of ideas and practices and through readily accessible gods, encourages "activity, spirit, courage, magnanimity, love of liberty, and all the virtues which aggrandize a people." Monotheism, in comparison, puts forth a perfect moral model of justice and compassion and yet promotes social intolerance and violence.
             Hence, Hume believes that Polytheistic religions are more conducive to maintaining peace and virtue in society. Polytheistic religions are more accepting than the Monotheistic they engage in fewer quarrels and wars. The existence of 'many' Gods and selected people enlightening a God-like status advances and encourages peoples faith rather than keeping them in fear. Monotheistic religions on the other hand places God at such an unattainable level that we mere mortals, are only able to commune through the patrons of the church. For many Monotheistic religions, God is an entity so supreme and vengeful that the salvation of human souls is only possible through devout and faithful worship.
             Despite the fact that Polytheistic religions, like that of the Romans and Mexicans, seem some what to be more barbaric, they are actually quite the opposite. Polytheists believe in absorbing the rights, rituals and traditions of all that they encompass. Rather than oppressing people Polytheists tend to welcome newly acquired cultures and accept the conquered Gods as equals to their own. Monotheists on the other hand have more vigorous religious intentions; not only do they not accept other deities, but they make it their point to convert other religions, as exemplified by the conquests
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