Why are religions so popular? - is it a problem? Can we (without faith) learn anything from religious practices?

A discussion on how we form world views should be interesting.

Despite greater understanding of our origins as a species and greater understanding of the world around us, the vast majority of people in the world still identify with a faith. Why is this the case? What is the appeal? Is it culture and tradition or something else? Religion is crucially important for many people.

It is estimated that there are anywhere between 4000 and 10000 different faiths – is this a problem ?  - can belief in religions that require a faith (that cannot be proven) be potentially dangerous?   

Philosopher Alain de Botton contends that religions can offer valuable tools for community-building, managing emotions, and finding moral guidance that modern secular institutions currently lack. Is he right? Are there other benefits?

Please register to attend as space is limited - if you can register on MeetUp that would…