Today, in The New York Times, Dr. David Bentley Hart explains why many (if not most) Christians believe in hell, citing Biblical and anecdotal accounts that counter that narrative. Of course, as a religious philosopher, he does not address why most humans are believers to begin with.
While the idea of eternal torment is indeed ludicrous, it is not much of a leap from other religious beliefs; mysticism is mysticism no matter how you try to justify its accuracy. It is the product of the human brain, instilled in the pre-science era and handed down (via fear and guilt infused teachings) through the generations. Indeed, religious zealotry has triggered conflict, intolerance and discrimination throughout human history, ensuring that many experience their hell before death; no need for one in the afterlife.
Sadly, many humans spend their entire life focused on the heavenly rewards they anticipate after death. We would all be better off if we accepted the fact that the heaven we seek and the hell we hope to avoid are right here on Earth.
While the idea of eternal torment is indeed ludicrous, it is not much of a leap from other religious beliefs; mysticism is mysticism no matter how you try to justify its accuracy. It is the product of the human brain, instilled in the pre-science era and handed down (via fear and guilt infused teachings) through the generations. Indeed, religious zealotry has triggered conflict, intolerance and discrimination throughout human history, ensuring that many experience their hell before death; no need for one in the afterlife.
Sadly, many humans spend their entire life focused on the heavenly rewards they anticipate after death. We would all be better off if we accepted the fact that the heaven we seek and the hell we hope to avoid are right here on Earth.
