Hello! My name is Sherry Lin. I am a second year student, majoring in graphic design. I grew up with little religious exposure; I grew up without a religion, I didn't practice any religious traditions like going to church, and my parents never gave me any guidance on what or who to believe. My parents are not religious, so it was almost never talked about in my family. It wasn't until high school that I was introduced to various types of religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Today I am an atheist. I don't believe in the existence of a higher power and look to science and nature for the answer. For example, I believe that the universe began with the explanation of the Big Bang theory and that there is no afterlife: we simply cease to exist. I am taking this course essentially to broaden my knowledge of the world and not to ignore religious practices. Religion is a significant part of human society. It dominates many aspects of culture and forms the way many people think and make decisions in their lives. Therefore, I think it would be useful to study this aspect of life. The only religion I know is Christianity as it is the most important religion in my environment. Given my minimal knowledge of religions in general, I am interested in learning more about the major religions widely practiced in the world today. Before reading, I thought that humans in all cultures and traditions have had religious beliefs because they naturally strive to find an answer and a solution for everything. God tends to act as an answer for many. We seek comfort, make requests, and thank someone of higher power. Religion also helps to unite people with similar beliefs, providing a common, shared ideal among human beings that allows us to bond together. Furthermore, religion is a form of hope. When nothing else is within their control or power, they pray to one or more gods for help. I still think what I thought is true after reading, but my thoughts are more intense now. According to Prothero, religion plays the role of a driving force in how people choose to act. Religion initiates people to act morally right and correct and also initiates evil intentions and motivations; it is an explanation for our behavior. Religion provides a set of morals and ideals to adhere to in order to feel like you are doing good for the world. By doing so, it allows them to have a purpose in life. In a chaotic and imperfect world, religious goals serve as a solution to a problem. For example, Prothero refers to Buddhism where the problem is suffering and nirvana is the solution. This provides balance in our lives. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay I think it is important to note that how someone practices religion is based on their personal perspective. Some may take rituals to the extreme while others may only practice certain aspects of the religion.