Chapter 15 Science and religion, Chapter 16 What is religion? Chapter 17 Vitals of a nation.

Chapter 15 Science and religion.

We learned about the four stages of the development of human intellect. In the Age of perception or The age of Gazing, we see things but do not ask questions. In the Age of observation, we are asking questions and looking for causes. These causes need not be linked by any logic, they could be mere superstitions. In the Age of scientific inquiry, we find causes that are linked by data, facts, and logic. The final stage is the Age of Contemplation, when we are asking questions beyond what we can link by directly verifiable logic. We start asking questions about the giver of the natural lows and the creator of the Universe etc.

These four stages need not be four periods in history. These stages can coexist as new areas of observations start their journey through these stages at different times.

Chapter 16 What is religion.

Religion is a combination of ritualism and philosophy.  Philosophy gives religion a purpose, a meaning. Ritualism gives religion a structure which makes it possible to pursue its goals. Without its philosophy religion is nothing but superstition.  Without ritualism religion is madness. 

Even other areas such as science have its philosophy, and its ritualism.

Chapter 17 Vitals of a nation.

Economics, scientific progress, and politics form the backbone of a country. However, by themselves they do not define a nation. A nation needs a common cause. A nation needs a sense of discrimination amongst its people towards its actions. Philosophy explores this purpose and when philosophy is translated with practical living it becomes religion.

A nation is comprised of individuals and the nature and texture of their mental equipment determines their nature and in turn the nature of the nation. Religion works on the minds of individuals and by inculcating good values, helps improve the nation.

Blog post contributed by SD