The real religion?

[bennyboy]

How can you say that none are better off? By what standard? Isn't a changed life consisting of the fruits of the spirit, a relationship with God and eternal life 'better off'?

Being a delusional fuckwit makes you "better off?"

No thanks. You have swallowed way too much Kool-Aid.

I quote you, but a few more answered in kind. I may misunderstand the thread or your argument, since I'm coming into it so late, so apologies if I misread.

I think it's pretty clear that some people are better off with new religious beliefs than with their old beliefs.  One of the advantages of an implausible world view is that it demands a suspension of disbelief, a kind of "pouring out" of the old world view.  Religions are at least at good at achieving this as other world views.

One specific example I can think of is disenfranchised criminals who "find Jesus," start to adopt new attitudes and behaviors, and join a community of overall pretty decent human beings who can help support them in getting work, avoiding bad social influences, etc.

Could this be achieved by a secular world view, group?  Maybe.  But I think Christians are particularly well-suited to make this kind of change in people's lives.