Does Religion Bring Peace to Humanity?

According to the Global Peace Index, the more secular a country’s population is, the more peaceful it tends to be. Conversely, countries with a higher percentage of religious followers tend to experience more instability and unrest.

The following seven countries have the highest proportion of secular, non-religious individuals—and, they are among the most peaceful nations in the world:

1. Japan – About 86% of the population is secular
2. Sweden – About 78% of the population is secular
3. Czech Republic – About 75% of the population is secular
4. United Kingdom – About 72% of the population is secular
5. Belgium – About 72% of the population is secular
6. Estonia – About 72% of the population is secular
7. Australia – About 70% of the population is secular

(Source: CEOWORLD & Global Peace Index)

In contrast, the following seven nations have the highest proportion of religious individuals, yet they rank among the lowest in global peace indicators:

1. Afghanistan
2. Saudi Arabia
3. Pakistan
4. Israel
5. Sudan
6. Yemen
7. Iraq

(Source: CEOWORLD & Global Peace Index)

Why Secular Societies More Peaceful?

One key reason secular societies experience greater peace is that secular individuals rely on their own judgment rather than blind faith. Their awareness and sense of justice guide them toward ethical decisions, reducing crime and social unrest. A self-guided person, driven by reason and conscience, is more likely to act ethically because their responsibility comes from within, not from external commands.

Self-Guided Ethics vs. Blind Obedience

In contrast, religious individuals who follow divine commands may engage in unethical actions due to a lack of immediate accountability. When people act based on external orders rather than independent thought, they often fail to judge their own actions and may justify harm as part of a divine plan. This detachment from personal responsibility leads to greater conflict and social unrest.

Psychology of Accountability vs. Submission

Psychologically, individuals act more responsibly when they are guided by their own reasoning rather than following external commands. Studies in behavioral psychology suggest that self-directed decision-making fosters accountability and ethical behavior, while obedience to authority—especially when perceived as absolute—can diminish personal moral evaluation. When people believe their actions are dictated by divine will rather than personal conscience, they may suppress critical thinking and act in ways that contradict fundamental ethical principles.

History Religious Extremism

History and present-day global conflicts shows clear evidence of how excessive religiosity contributes to instability. Many of the world’s most violent conflicts have been fueled by religious fundamentalism. Mandkind has suffered the most from religious conflicts throughout the ages. In contrast, secular societies encourage independent thought, and peaceful coexistence—which is why the secular countries rank higher on the Global Peace Index.

Final Thought

Now, with your own conscience, decide by yourself—does religion or religiousness bring peace to humanity?