What are the different theories of the origin of religion?

Answer 1

I don't know, but this is what I think. Once human became smarter and started to have free time to think (instead of constantly looking for food,) they would start to wonder of their existents, future, hope, fears, explanations for naturals events. Since there were plenty things that can't be explained at the time and even now, they'd start to believe of an unknown power. Different regions would have different beliefs about the unknown power/being(s). Those beliefs would spread when they conquer other area. The beliefs would change as knowledge is gained about what was 'unknown' before. Religion certainly has helped many people cope, give meaning, understand, hope, about their existents. Unfortunately, it can also be used to oppress and control people. It's obvious to me that what you believe is very often whatever you were exposed to while growing up. If you were born in the middle of the jungle where no other religions have been introduced, you'd believe whatever people in that area have believed for years. Does that make their beliefs inferior to yours? That's your choice to make.