Some people believe that religions are superstitions devised by people who lust for power and control over their fellow men.  Sometimes, it is said,  they are also simply a means of making a living for a charlatan or faux wizard  (viz. the founder of the Mormans).  But how effective they can be!  Witness the number of “Christian” sects, the properties, incomes and private jets owned by their “charismatic” leaders.

People yearn for answers to the big questions. In return for money and a dose of adoration they receive their reassurance:  they need do nothing but give 10% of their income to the church (a.k.a tribe) without complaining. Be good lads and lassies and you will sit at the right hand of the almighty or, even better, be rich on earth.

Epicurus believed that, if there were gods they took no interest in human beings but caused aggravation to one another up there on Mount Olympus.  Since people have been burned alive for not being superstitious at all it is always wise to allude to the gods existing, even if you know it is all a charade.

Oh well, I still touch wood and think twice before walking under a ladder with a guy on it with a pot of paint in his hand.  So why am I criticising others?  Epicureans should know themselves  and view themselves with jaundiced eyes.