Are religious people happier than atheists?

Rob (No)

Atheists, unlike religious people, are viewed as happier in life since they are not burdened with the guilt associated with spiritual teachings or forced to live under demanding codes of conduct. While these teachings guide believers towards a more meaningful life, they also often instill guilt, shame, and fear of divine punishment in the afterlife among believers.

According to a study published in the Journal of Social Psychological and Personality Science, religious individuals may not be happier than atheists, as most studies claim, and these studies may be skewed and, thus, untrue. This is because cultural expectations and social desirability can influence participants to respond in favor of religion, potentially distorting the results.

Happiness goes hand-in-hand with freedom of will, and atheists arguably enjoy more of it than their religious counterparts. Atheists embrace personal autonomy and freedom of thought, enabling them to live on their own terms. They are not bound to any religious restrictions, and they’re free to pursue paths in life that align with their own aspirations and desires. 

Lastly, while religious people may find comfort in the thought of an afterlife and a higher purpose, the 'godless' live life in the now, appreciating life presently without the anticipation or concern for an afterlife. Understanding life in its present form, they can fully immerse in its pleasures and experiences without concern for judgment or divine punishment after death. 

Are religious people happier than atheists, then? Happiness is a complex and multifaceted concept that cannot be solely attributed to an individual’s religious affiliation. The notion that religious people are happier than atheists, however, isn’t true and cannot be backed up with concrete evidence.

Elisa (Yes)

Scientific studies show that religious people involved in their beliefs are simply happier than atheists. In fact, according to Psychology Today, ‘Some researchers are so confident that religion makes people happier, and healthier, that they want it to be prescribed by doctors.’ While some studies claim it is solely because of fellowship and community, there is more to it than that. 

Religious people even seem healthier than atheists, contributing to this happiness. Religious people may make better life choices, like smoking and drinking less, leading to healthier lives. Further, according to the Independent, religious people live longer than atheists because ‘Abstinence, meditation, and social ties may all be a factor in increased longevity.’

Spirituality, which coincides with religion, leads people to less depression and anxiety, which many believe is due to the ‘power of the group’ or fellowship. Religious people who regularly attend services report more happiness mainly due to more solid support systems. 

Still, as mentioned earlier, it isn’t just about the people. God is key to this happiness, and religious people accept that they do not have total control over every problem in their lives and can “give it to God,” learning to be ‘content in all situations.’ In fact, many religions, like Christianity, promote concepts that help promote joy even when suffering, which leads to a happier, healthier, better-adjusted view of life. Religious people have a sense of purpose that may be lacking in atheism, which often resorts to nihilistic philosophies, contributing to a ‘bleak view’ of life. 

When it comes down to it, religious people can better handle ‘vicissitudes’ than non-believers—that is, they never feel alone in their troubles.