[Reeses]

Having a superior religion provides an edge increasing the probability of survival. Atheists are at a disadvantage and tend to get killed off. However it is just one factor. There is little evidence Neanderthals were religious while Cro-Magnons were.

[stuartcr]

Why does having a superior religion provide an edge over atheists? As I asked, what about wars between people of the same religion?

What kind of religious evidence would neanderthals provide?

[Flag_This]

"There is little evidence Neanderthals were religious while Cro-Magnons were."

Years ago, I read about some neanderthal burials that contained red ochre, which had been deliberately added, and a large amount of pollen from flowers, plus some "grave goods." This suggested that some sort of ritual was involved; otherwise, why not just roll the body into a ditch?

Apparently, neanderthals weren't very artistic. They haven't found much in the way of paintings or sculptures that could be interpreted as spiritual - unlike Cro-magnon, but that doesn't mean neanderthals weren't religious.

Here's some additional info: Link