What makes a religion?

Let us refer back to the intrinsic http://www.dictionary.com/


Religion
–noun
1.
a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, esp. when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs.

(It goes on, but we don't care)


So, let us start with the common question, is Agnosticism a religion?

Does the average agnostic concern themselves with the cause, nature and purpose of the universe? Considering the previous post it is possible to say that agnosticism is based in disbelief which, technically, is a belief in and of itself. Atheism is a form of religion with a belief in nothing. Agnosticism is a religion with a belief in nothing else.

How about when considered as the creation of superhuman agency or agencies? This particularly poses an interesting concept. I think it would do agnosticism a great deal of good to assign ourselves a superhero. I call him Agno-man. He will save the world with his extreme unwillingness to conform to common beliefs. When the world says it is round, Agno-man shouts "Nay!" for he has yet to see it himself. When we spend the millions of dollars to send Agno-man to outer space to prove this fact he may then consider changing his beliefs. Until then, he just doesn't know.

Do we involve any devotional and ritual observances? I don't know about you, but I shower regularly, brush my teeth once a month or so, maybe even work hard if the day calls for it. I'd consider that a certain amount of devotion that deserves its own kind of recognition.

Finally, shall we consider a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs? We most definitely have this. I'm certain of it. Have you ever heard of the agnostic serial killer? Nope. We're a peaceful folk. In fact, don't we all just want to get along? All we want is the freedom to tell you how wrong you are.

So, in conclusion, we count. Sign the parish contract, donate your hard-earned wages, and, most definitely, drink the wine. I expect to see you next Sunday.