Why do Religions Exist?

I think that religions exist, or still exist, because some people have a need of security. They need to have set rules and rewards (or consequenses) that tell them how to live their lives. People want to be able to have an explanation for things that may confuse or frighten them. Some religions offer people a sense of belonging, while others can give them a feeling of peace. Unfortunately, as we learn in history lessons, religion can be used as a means to control, such as in various cults, or massacre, as in the Holocaust, entire groups of people. Though religions have historically caused conflict and death, many people have religion to fill a void that otherwise would be empty.

Civilized: Lilli Style

My idea of a civilized person is someone who is conscious of their surroundings, themselves, their own stories and their imminent future. Civilized, to me, is completely mental. It is not based on how you cook your food, what kind of shelter you sleep under, or what customs you grew up with. If that were the case, then humans would constantly worry about some unknown, more superior race who will someday come and take over our so-called civilized world. No, a civilized person is kind, someone who loves to learn, is always prepared for obstacles and makes other people better by association. Maybe it is too much of a though out description, but I believe that true civilization is achieved individually, not according to race.