Are You Religious?

[geodave]

...you mean as an excuse? It seems like a means of justifying something you've already committed to, rather than being a reason TO commit. I dunno, maybe I'm misinterpreting you here, but that's the vibe I get...

Excuse is a bit harsh. First cause isn't the reason for my belief system, nor is it required. What's nice about an argument like this (or design, or others) is that it enhances a belief system, makes it more rounded and complete.

So, it's not "justifying" as much as "fortifying".