I’d like to suggest an alternative theory about the general reason for the seemingly universality of religion. Yes it does seem to be a default position for humanity, but why would that be? My answer is this. As infant and toddlers we are surrounded by huge, alll-powerful, all/knowing beings who provide good, love , and hugs. Although we do not have words to describe them, our parents imprint upon us as Gods. As we age, we want these powerful, loving, benign beings to heap their love and protection on us. When we don’t find God in our lives , we fabricate false gods , secular gods, as substitutes. Erich Fromm called them “magic helpers” which can be people lik celebrity worship, or a cause or identity that is bigger and more important than life itself.