Does belief in assertions that cannot be scientifically proved lead to moral or immoral behavior?
I want to give some examples of interest:
Let's assume capitalism is pure good. Then increasing profits by stealing is good. That is a contradiction, stealing is not good. Yes, false assumptions lead to immoral behavior; otherwise, we could have Medicare for all and Bernard L. Madoff would be free.
I asked the question mostly because a lot of “believers” (in whatever) claim high moral standards. In fact I have seen it asserted that “belief in God causes moral behavior” - perhaps because of the fear of divine retribution. I suppose in some cases “believers” do hold high moral standards. But I can't help thinking (as some of you have noted) the opposite is more often the case.
Bottom line: Atheists and Agnostics are often dismissed as immoral people. In fact, the case that we hold the moral high ground is pretty strong.
Depends. The commandments if they really came from god, can only be enforced by god. Man's efforts to enforce the commandments in this name of god have caused much misery in the world. After seventy two rolls in the hay you would spend the rest of eternity without any more virgins. If Jesus could really save you, you would still have to die to reap the benefits. Don't forget, if he saves you while you are on earth, you have to commit to a life of poverty, communal living and total piety. So get your heavy duty sinning over with first. Then give yourself to Jesus.
Of all the profligates, libertines, and Letchers I have known, none gave a damn about the ten commandments or any societal restraints.
As for 72 virgins...72 demanding, screaming, whining virgins...that is hell not heaven.
Jebus ain't gunna save me neither!
Only as much as unjustified assertions can lead to moral behavior.
Such assertions will inevitability lead to the wrong choices for a particular goal. Functionally incorrect actions.
One may live a virtuous and moral life, not in spite of, but on account of a belief in "heavenly rewards". I would not risk much on backing unprovable or unproven concepts to bring about moral actions, but they may.