Why do some people seem to think that monotheistic religions are superior to polytheism and animism?

Question

In western societies there seems to be this underlying thought/stereotype that monotheistic religions are superior to polytheistic and animistic religions. Often, it seems, people tend to think that because they only believe in one god, so therefore one god equals superior worshippers. Or at least they act that way. People in western societies, although not openly, look down on those in "underdeveloped" countries, who still have "primitive" peoples and people who are polytheistic or animistic. They often go there to convert them in order to "help" them. People have also tried to measure cultures in terms of how advanced they are, putting monotheism at the top and animism at the bottom of the scale. (A cultural anthropology thing, I'm not sure if they still try to do this) Any other thoughts on this subject? And as to how this type of thinking came to be?

Here's something to think about. If less gods equals superiority, then wouldn't atheists be the most superior of all people?

By the way, I might add that this is a serious question. Much more could be said about the subject of western cultures acting superior towards others, especially ones in "undeveloped/primitive" countries. Like the technological advances western cultures have. Technology seems to give people a sense of importance.

Also, I already have my own thoughts on this subject. This isn't a question because I am confused as to what to think. I can think for myself. I am curious as to what others think about this.

Answer 1

All cultures have expressed their own superiority at one point or another. There was a time (i.e. Greek and Roman era) when Western Civilization viewed polytheism as superior and monotheism as backwards. The Greco-Roman world view prior to Constantine's era (approximately) viewed the monotheistic beliefs of Christianity and Judaism as culturally inferior (see The Teaching Company on the early middle ages or any good history book on the late Roman Empire). It took a while for the monotheistic view to ascend to dominance.



As for other cultures, for much of its history China considered itself the center of the world (i.e. its Middle Kingdom also known as) and that civilization and harmonious society flowed from it to its neighbors. The Persian Empire (after absorbing the Median Empire) thought that it had a divine mission to spread order via Ahura Mazda (Zoroastrian Religion, see _Persian Fire_) in the decades leading up to their conflict with the Greeks.



In conclusion, this is not something that is unique to what you are viewing as Western stereotypes; but has existed in some form or another for most of human civilization. It has less to do with the actual number of gods involved in any substantive way, and more to do with what is in fashion at the moment. Viewed through the lens of history, there may come a time when the poly-view is dominant again. Who knows. Or we could just go to zero with a purely atheistic view. The point is that it has more to do with what the culture accepts as a whole at the time that you are making the observation. During Roman times - polytheism was viewed as more sophisticated. Today, monotheism may be seen as more sophisticated than others.

Answer 2

I think you are right. The theism you are speaking of does play a part, but the technological advances are more prevalent in my opinion. When I was in Mombasa I quickly realized that it didn't matter if you had a cell phone or a lap top. If you didn't know how to keep mosquitoes off of you or find water you were dead. I think "advances" are relevant to the culture and their societal habitat really. Even though we have iPhones, they have something that would blow it out of the water in their environment.



Now, you didn't mention anything about Indian beliefs when you talked about "Western Culture". In the West, Native Americans are not a primitive group and they are polytheistic. So, don't categorize "the west" so broadly. I would avoid generalizations altogether.

Answer 3

I have read some of the old Mythologies, as well as the Bible and parts of the Koran, I think that in general,the Monotheistic Beliefs are more advanced morally and have a greater depth, but to some extent I take it on a case by case basis, for example, hindu beliefs are polytheistic, but they run very deep and I do not argue with that, when I look at Norse and Greek Mythology, well, to me most of it is not much deeper than a saturday morning cartoon show, although I give the Germanic and Norse "Asatruars" some credit for Wyrd, which is a rather deep concept.The Greeks where deep, but it was more their philosophy than their religion.



It's case by case, but surely some belief systems are better than others, some are down right destructive, consider the beliefs of this man and how it lead him and his country down the path of depravity



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua_Blahyi

Answer 4

I agree with you. I think the same way. The western world has been blessed to be more modernized and they have wealth. Some people equal wealth and living conditions to the value of a person. You know what I mean? Like just because certain people practice voodoo in Haitit, Christians over here say they are poor because they have different religious beliefs. I've heard of them talking about other cultures as well. Westerners are very smug. Truthfully. And it isnt until you grow up and see things for yourself and get educated that you will see the world in as better context. Hmm, about Athiests..well, I associate with Christians because my family are Christians and so are my friends and the majority of the people I know. But athiests are usually more modern thinkers and I respect them for not being bound by religion, although I believe in the spirit world. SO, I'm not exactly an athiest, neither am I a religious person. So all in all I think we may have some of the same view points. I also think these Westerners who look down at the rest of the world are behind in spirituality, though. That's why you always hear of them going to places like India to meditate. I mean, Christians, majority of the ones I met block everything out and call it the devil. lol But let me leave you with one last thought: Christianity is a relatively new religion. Have you read the Old Testament and ever thought to yourself, is this really a loving God? I've read the crazy stuff, wars in the name of God, bodies being cut up, etc. Then here comes Jesus and they kill him... Just WEIRD. And people are always going around saying Jesus loves you. I've been going to church for years and I have ne ver had an experience with Jesus, although some people say they have. But anyways, thats why I think Muslims look at us over here like with hate because of our culture. But I could go on and on. lol Good question.

Answer 5

According to Islam, God is the ultimate creator of everything hence, the devil, concepts like good and bad, events, etc. are all His creation. Thus, a Muslim does not blame the devil when things go wrong on the planet. The overall belief is that, good and evil are concepts within the context of earth. This is why, Muslims see life as a test of mettle, where everything comes from God. But just because an act has been created by God, it does not mean it has been initiated or done by the creator especially if it came from human hands. Thus, all human deeds are the responsibility of humans. This belief is good for both the wrongdoer and the victim: 1. the wrongdoer is told that they will pay the price of every act they do purposefully and sanely. 2. the victim is told that even if the wrongdoer will receive punishment by God and law. This event took place within the knowledge of God and hence, it came from God, indirectly. This tests the victims humbleness in reciprocating and they either rebel against God, or chose to trust His wisdom and strengh. It all depends on how you look at life. The first thing we Muslims teach our kids is that life is a test, and they need to hold onto all the good values they are taught and show patience in order to pass it. Spiritually speaking this view of the world is called: Human will within Gods Will. sort of like a space within a larger space. Alas, not many Muslims show patience now a days.

Answer 6

It's not a question of superiority; it's viewpoint.



From the polytheistic point of view, there's a saying that "there's strength in numbers." And that, "there's superiority in specialty." So, more gods equals more strength; more gods equals undivided specialty.



Psalms 138:1- "I will praise thee with my whole heart: before the gods will I sing praise unto thee."



From the monotheistic viewpoint, a god is not God if He has an equal.



Psalms 96:4 - "For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods."



There is one God; but manifestations are many.

Answer 7

I think there is a common sense reason why a monotheistic religion would be superior to a polytheistic religion...the issue is as simple as the problems we observe in children who have two (or more) parents. In a monotheistic religion, the lines of authority and leadership are clear and unquestionable...one "god" is the sole source of information about a person's purpose and the direction they should take. The moment you add a second "god" to the equation, you introduce conflict. Just as children become confused when one parent (or set of parents) has different rules and different expectations for that child, a polytheistic believer is going to become confused when the demands of two or more of their gods are in conflict. Resolving that conflict requires the child or the believer to choose which one to acknowledge and obey and is likely to suffer in some way at the hands of the parent/god they chose to ignore in favor of the other. Furthermore, if you think about it, every time the polytheistic person chooses one god over another, he or she is basically transforming his or her beliefs from polytheistic to monotheistic at least within the context of that decision/choice.

Answer 8

I really see them on the same level, the only difference is monotheistic religions make a God with unified archetypical traits, while polytheism separates those traits into completely different characters.



I'm not say God(s) aren't real, I'm saying that in monotheism and polytheism, the way they view God(s) from a human perspective is different, when really it's all the same thing.

Answer 9

I think they base it on size. Since the two largest religions are monotheistic, then it is safe to assume that monotheism is superior. That's what their thought process might be anyway.

Answer 10

It's sheer arrogance and trying to establish a false hierarchy, social status if you will.

Funny thing is we all die, rich or poor, religious or Atheist.

No one is higher or lower than anyone else and as far as society, a street sweeper should be treated with the same respect you'd show a CEO of a major corporation.

Answer 11

I agree with you. It seems to be an attitude of ---- 'We here in ________ have a higher standard of living than you; therefore, anything we believe, no matter how silly, is superior to anything you poor people may believe.' "Cash is King!"

Answer 12

It's true

Answer 13

Your logic is actually quite illogical, no wonder you're confused.

Answer 14

It's called "Faith"

"Faith" is believing things when others tell you you're wrong.

Answer 15

That which is true is always "superior" to falsehoods.