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I look at things from a scientific point of view. I don't need religion. I realize the impact that religion has had on humanity.

Isn't it rational, looking at the difference between religous and athiestic cultures, to draw the conclusion Steyn does? That fear of a divine judgment serves as a brake on what would otherwise be selfish behavior? If the here and now is all there is, would people (in general) behave more like angels or devils?

"That fear of a divine judgment serves as a brake on what would otherwise be selfish behavior?"

It does. I am not arguing that it doesn't. Certainly a Christian organization is going to act differently than a Satanic organization. Christians (true Christians) want to do right by their fellow man and follow the teachings of Jesus. Anyone who follows the teachings of Jesus will surely be a more compassionate person because they want to be viewed as righteous in the eyes of God.
I don't believe that God is watching me but I still choose to be viewed as righteous. Only, in the eyes of my friends, family and fellow man.