[Angus]

The true bigots are those that don't allow others to believe in whatever the hell they want to believe in, provided it hurts no-one else. Those that mock and jeer at others' beliefs are just bolstering up their own pathetic superiority complex and belief system, for the most part not based on any tangible or definitive proof or evidence. If a deeply held faith gives someone comfort, meaning and structure to their lives what the hell does it have to do with anyone else?

I have no problem with any religion, if someone wants to worship an invisible deity(ies) that is their choice. What I do have a problem with is those that hi-jack a religion to further their own agendas.

The answer to the OP's original question is YES religion is overall a force for good in the world since it can ennoble the human spirit and motivate people in positive and inspirational ways. The fact that a minority of fanatics selectively interpret religious doctrine to pursue their own ideologies should not detract from that simple truth. IMO The problems in this world do not emanate from religion but from politics and the pursuit of power.