On page 31 of Smith’s book, he develops an interesting counterattack to O. E. Wi

Question

On page 31 of Smith’s book, he develops an interesting counterattack to O. E. Wilson’s belief that religion is “easier” than other things, especially “empiricism.” After reading Catoir, answer these questions: What are some of the physically challenging aspects of religion, especially in Buddhist practices? In your experience, what are some physically challenging aspects of religious practice? Have you ever been “changed” by a physical discipline? (Feel free to include military, athletic or artistic disciplines)

Explanation / Answer

Religion and empiricism are antagonistic to each other. Religion operates on an organised implementation of mythologies, ceremonies, attitude and conviction. Even though, it inculcates the feeling of belongingness and strong cohesive attachement amomg its worshipers, it has many physical implications. For example, the practice of circumcision in Islamic countries have often witnessed a hazardous impact on the child's health, or forcing a woman to keep fast as a religious ritual in Hinduism , has often led to health deviation such as low blood pressure in women with Type 2 diabates.Buddhism follows a similar trajectory when it comes to religious practices. Although,Buddhist teachings focus on healing of the 'self' (psychological ) and attaining a state of Enlightenment (spiritual ), it has a negative impact on the body. For example, a monk by his nature is expected to not consume meat of any form. The idea of valuing every life is crucial but one needs to understand the nutritional and biological nurturing value of meat(like Vitamin B-12,Magnesium, Vitamin B-6) for patients suffering from vitamin deficiency. Other practice like the idea of complete segregation from the woman community(abstinence) and being categorised as 'unclean' if touched by a women, not only has a biological implication(leading to prostatitis, unbalanced hormonal distribution in men) but also leads to psychological disorders like anxiety (due to shame and guilt of indugling in sexual thoughts).

There is a difference between forced religious rituals that disrupts the biological and psychological well being of an individual, and a disciplined lifestyle that catalysis positive bodily function. Personally, I have been affected positively by lifestyle that reinforces discipline of the body and mind. For examples, waking up at 6 in the morning(for a jog), and practising meditation for an hour thereafter, has led to positive changes in my life. Not only my body weight is in congruence with my age and height (Body Mass Index), I have developed a better positive outlook towards life (due to an in-depth engagement with self ,while meditating ). Hence, it is crucial to understand the philosophy of any religious ritual that we practice, the bodily implications of it and certainly the psychological benefits/harm of it.

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