Merely a Defense? The Variety of Religious Means and Ends

This paper examines the validity of the view that religion is a defense, a mechanism designed to reduce tension by avoiding a threatening situation rather than confronting it. Empirical and theoretical literature is reviewed suggesting that tension reduction is one but not the only motivation for religious involvement. Additional evidence also indicates that religion is not simply a form of denial, not merely a passive form of coping, and not solely associated with resistance to social change. In contrast to the religion as defense stereotype, religion appears to serve many different purposes and does so in many different ways. It may be more helpful to think of religion as a way of coping, effectively or ineffectively, with life's most difficult problems than as a defensive reaction to trouble. This more differentiated perspective leads to more refined questions about the factors that determine the shape of religion. It also underscores the need for a greater appreciation of the potentially helpful and harmful roles religion can play in the life of the individual and the community. Finally, it points to new opportunities for collaboration between those psychological and religious communities that share a respect for diversity, the dignity of the individual, and social justice.