A Scientific Theory of Religions

Book excerpt: It is not our intention to examine in detail the beliefs and dogmas of any particular religion or religions. Numerous books and studies have already done this. Nor is it our intention or purpose to refute any of the beliefs of any religion or religions. The present state of religious argument and controversy in modern societies remains almost entirely at the level of refutation or defence of religious beliefs and practices. Our purpose, on the contrary, is to understand the general nature of all religions, how they evolved in human society, and how and why they function as they do.