> > Yup, I think my theory has been completely shot down at this point. But then, that's part of what happens to most theories.
>
> Sounds like a solid theory to me. Let's debate it.

To digress slightly...

The basis of intelligence (and perception) is the creation of patterns from chaos.
We see a random universe and distill a sense of order from it, this then is incorporated into our 'understanding' of experience, with cause and effect.
From this we naturally form a impulse to see 'justice' playing a part in our interactions.
Where 'justice' is not apparent we seek an external force to explain away discrepancies.
God or gods are invoked to fill the void.
And thus we have religion. We feel comfortable. Religion is a natural corollary of intelligence.
But this is a poor stop-gap bound at some point to fail, by the chaotic nature of the 'processes' it is meant to explain.

Please feel free to interrupt at any point...