The connection between happiness and religion in general and the Essay

The connection between happiness and religion in general and the positive correlation therein - Essay Example The purpose of the essay is to investigate the connection existing between happiness and religion. Happiness and religion exists mainly because many, if not all, of the religions tend to focus on the minds of the followers. Studies have revealed that while not many religions may explicitly express their full support or agreement to positive psychology, many embrace it. That is to say, the components of positive psychology are normally applied in many of the religious teachings though without using the same terms. In positive psychology, the central ideology is focusing on the positive even when faced with an enormous challenge. Similarly, in many religions, the followers are encouraged to rely on a being capable of helping them with the challenge. Therefore, when this happens, the people feel the burden is not insurmountable and tend to hold a positive attitude. Consequently, the religious people are compelled to remain positive in the midst of challenges. It is after remaining positive that religious people exhibit happiness since one’s psychological state is imperative to happiness. Notwithstanding these assertions, there is a disparity when it comes to the role played by religion in various social classes. For instance, the poorest people in the society may attribute much of their success to religion unlike the others who, despite holding religious beliefs, may take credit. In short, religion does indeed influence happiness but in different capacities depending on the class of people involved. Religious individuals of higher status in the society may not always ascribe to religion as their source of happiness. Conversely, the others who cannot in any way control their lives will most likely rely on the beliefs and practices to find insurance, happiness and satisfaction in religious places. In light of the above, it is evident that even though religion does indeed have a significant impact on one’s happiness, it