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Originally Posted by BigBrodieFan
@Duffman- not saying I disagree with your theory or evidence- but that chart isn't right. Utah is definitely one of the most religious states in the Union. They come in second behind Mississippi (very close) for the past two years:
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogsfa...-2012.html.csp
You'll notice that Utah is much more 'happy' and 'generous' - Mormons seek happiness where Christians (Catholics esp) are born sinners and must repent and feel guilty about their sins. The Christians keep on sinning and trying to gain forgiveness where the Mormons are pretty true to their religion- they are (strict LDS) not hypocrites- they do not have sex before marriage, they do not drink/smoke/drink caffeine, they are very true to their beliefs. Might have something to do with the fact that it's a new religion or 'cult'- not sure. They are also educated and taught at a young age to fend for themselves via their 'missions.' Instead of worshiping Virgin statues and turning wine into blood, they wear magic underwear. I don't really get why.. but maybe it's the magic underwear that makes them so happy..
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Part of the Mormon's generosity is forced. They are required to give a certain percentage of their income to the church, and have to declare their income to prove they gave enough.
Part of their higher happiness is related to how they tend to stay relatively fit as part of their religion, and avoid addictive substances, which helps their overall health. However, I wonder how much of their contentment is real, and how much they just report to be content as that is what they want and try to be. Given how difficult it's reported to be to leave the religion, I'd be surprised if there isn't a significant group of very unhappy and discontented members.