The draw of most religions is that they promise solutions to the ultimate question of life and death. Since they all disagree, at most one can be right. Since these answers are derived from "revelation", it is overwhelmingly likely that all are wrong.
So, what are the redeeming qualities? They provide community. They often teach people to do good to their neighbors. They just might have some general parental-like wisdom for how to live a fulfilling life.
The true believer, however, believes the dogma, cultural baggage and pure ignorance that comes along with ancient writings. "Moderate" religions ignore most of their holy text, and focus only on "nice" stuff. In doing so, they would be considered heretics by the original founders of the religion.
So, what are the redeeming qualities? They provide community. They often teach people to do good to their neighbors. They just might have some general parental-like wisdom for how to live a fulfilling life.
The true believer, however, believes the dogma, cultural baggage and pure ignorance that comes along with ancient writings. "Moderate" religions ignore most of their holy text, and focus only on "nice" stuff. In doing so, they would be considered heretics by the original founders of the religion.
