Does religion influence epidemics?

[thewayne]

A paper was presented recently where the author "...read the historical literature and queried religious leaders and other experts about the world's epidemics and the way religions deal with disease. They found that between 800 B.C.E. and 200 B.C.E., cities flourished, deadly plagues arose capable of killing off up to two-thirds of a population, and several modern religions emerged. These religions all had a different take on disease, which affected how people responded to epidemics such as polio, measles, and smallpox, Hughes reported. The belief systems, for example, influenced whether people fled from disease or tried to help those who were sick."

That time frame fits Judaism and Buddhism but is too early for Christianity and Islam, I'm not sure what other 'modern religions' the author may be talking about. But it is an interesting read with some good comments.

http://news.sciencemag.org/sciencenow/2011/08/does-religion-influence-epidemic.html?ref=hp

http://science.slashdot.org/story/11/08/24/018213/Does-Religion-Influence-Epidemics