(June 5, 2024 at 1:50 pm)Ahriman Wrote:(June 5, 2024 at 1:11 pm)Lucian Wrote: A further question. Robert Sapolsky in his book Determined mentions studies showing benefits of religion that seem to be grounded in the communal aspect of religious practices, especially in organised religion. I have considered whether I want to investigate attending a local humanist meeting or something to get some more community. My hobbies are niche and not something that there will be a local club or something for, so it seems an option, but frankly I am in danger of being a loner with a lot of books, and that isn't always fun. That said, I am worried it will be jumping from one group (Christianity) and into another (humanism). Does anyone have any experience of such a move to a humanist group after leaving religion and any wisdom on the benefits/drawbacks?
I joined something similar to a cultist group after leaving Catholicism. Everyone at Mass always seemed happy and well put together, while the cultists seemed more despondent. I can read people's energies very well and my new friends didn't seem depressed, but something was definitely wrong. I have no way of knowing if those people would've benefited from God or religion being a part of their lives.
I seem to recall discussing with a fair few Christians their problems showing their real struggles when at church. I have bipolar disorder, so lots of really long enjoyable depressive phases with a few very pleasant times (as long as I am careful). Pretty much felt like I had to hide that depression at church so as to not be a downer. Difficult to tell whether the joy and "got it togetherness" we see in people at church is real.
I am assuming you left the group you ended up in?
