Religion is a cultural system of beliefs, practices and ethics that expresses and explains human valuations and concerns. It is commonly viewed as including people’s relation to that which they regard as holy, sacred, absolute, spiritual or divine and as worthy of especial reverence. It also encompasses their ideas and attitudes toward a supernatural creator god or gods, angels or spirits and may contain mystical, magical or mythological elements.
It reflects man’s profound awareness of his dependence upon, and his need for, a power to control the forces of nature for his weal or woe. This recognition, coupled with the conviction that he can acquire friendly, beneficent communion with the deity or deities on whom he depends, engenders hope.
Anthropologists believe that early religion developed out of an attempt to control uncontrollable aspects of the environment, such as weather or the success of a hunt. These attempts were either through manipulation, as in magic, or through supplication, as in religion.
Belief in a higher power can help reduce anxiety and depression, provide comfort, guidance, structure and traditions, and encourage moral behavior and empathy. Some research suggests that religious people live longer and are healthier. However, this may have more to do with social contact and a healthy lifestyle than with religion itself. Religious values promote self-control, good health and family stability. They also form the backbone of many social welfare programs throughout the world. The President and Senate should choose and confirm judges who understand the vital role of religion in American society and will be sensitive to its needs in our courts.