In recent years we have often heard conservative politicians talk about the decline of so-called “family values” in America, to the point that the term itself has become a cliché. In most cases this desire to return to family values ​​is a thinly veiled reference to religion, particularly Christianity, and the belief that the United States of America was founded on the principles of Christian dogma and has somehow distance yourself from his beliefs. This apostasy has led, they believe, to virtually every bad thing that happens in our world, from increases in violent crime to decreases in church attendance and income. If only America would once again embrace its Christian roots, all would be well. At least that's what we're led to believe. This romantic notion is, of course, frivolous. But this raises the question of whether religion is a prerequisite for altruism? Can people, both as individuals and as a society, be intrinsically good without religion? The very idea of ​​living life without the moral compass of religion is anathema to ardent believers in America. They are convinced that the motto “In God We Trust,” printed on our currency, is evidence of the founding fathers' mandate to be religious, and if we ignore that mandate we will surely endanger our existence as a free nation. Ironically, it was George Washington himself who said in 1796: “The Government of the United States is in no sense founded on the Christian religion.” (Santa Fe Independent School District v. Jane Doe, 99-62) the importance of separation of church and state, prohibiting student-led prayers at public school services. This government... middle of paper... ...with me in Heaven.” For Hindus or Buddhists eternal life is slightly different. They believe that through reincarnation the spirit continues to live to enter another being. This phenomenon repeats itself endlessly and also allows the spirit to improve itself, if the believer is worthy of it. It's not a bad attraction; eternal and ever-improving life for your soul. The theological common denominator always seems to be a promise of reward or a threat of punishment as an incentive or motivation to follow a religion and be a good person. For me, altruism – a selfless regard for the well-being of others – is its own reward because it truly makes you a better person, in this life, and the only reward is perhaps the personal satisfaction of knowing that you are doing what you he is fair, kind and humane. No promise of Heaven. No threat of Hell. No religion necessary.