“Religion is an attempt to get control over the sensory world, in which we are placed, by means of the wish-world, which we have developed inside us as a result of biological and psychological necessities.”

Simplified Meaning:

People often turn to religion to make sense of the world around them and to feel more in control of their lives. For example, when faced with natural disasters or personal hardships, religion provides a way to understand and cope with these events, offering comfort and explanations rooted in faith and belief. This sense of control is important because humans naturally seek to understand their environment and find meaning in their experiences. Inside us, we have a set of desires and wishes that shape how we think and feel about the world. These are influenced by our biological needs, like wanting safety and food, and our psychological needs, such as seeking love and understanding. Religion helps to address these needs by offering stories, rules, and rituals that give people a sense of order and purpose. By following religious practices, people can feel connected to something greater than themselves, which helps satisfy their inner desires for meaning and connection. This internal world of wishes and needs is complex, and religion can provide a structure to help manage it. In turn, this structure helps individuals feel more grounded and less overwhelmed by the unpredictability of life.