I am not accusting religious people of being universally unkind and cruel, although that most certainly is true of many religious people.

There are, however, several scientific studies done that show a correlation between the degree of intelligence and education and atheism, and the lack of education and a lower level of education for those who believe in gods. Again, there are acceptions, but, in general, that is what the studies say.

When people believe in gods, they also believe in what those gods say, i.e. if you die as a martyr, you will have 72 virgins, if you ask Jesus for forgiveness, you will have everlasting life, etc. All of these things have an impact on the decisions people who believe in those religions make.

I firmly believe all religions should be abolished and that children should not be brainwashed into believing nonsense fairytales.