Religion

It is important to not read too deeply into this question of universalization. Many conclusions that are reached are sure to be wrong as they will be either too vague, or simply contradicted by history. It is probably most correct to simply say that this period provides an example of cultural diffusion by missionaries. It is during this time that Rome became a Christian state. If anything this simple shows the effect that missionaries had by spreading Christianity to Rome. One would be foolish in thinking that one religion is able to surpass another simply on its own merits and beliefs. All major religious change does not come from a seeking of faith but from being an acceptable person. It is perhaps more interesting to treat the spreading of certain religions like a social trend. People are simply attracted to whatever institution is currently the best to attend. There is no precedent for believing that people are deep thinkers, who will consciously choose what god they want to worship. Just look at the stupid stuff people do today. The only people who seriously consider such trivial matters as religion are people who have nothing better to do, or who are employed in it. Religion is basically popular culture. Christianity was popular in Europe and Hinduism was popular in India. People don't really care too deeply about religion as long as they don't already have a vested interest in it. This is why some people rejected the caste system, and changed religions, or why in present times people are okay with being agnostic. Missionaries create the pressure that causes social norms to change. If people don't really care about their current religion, they will change when someone tells them to. In summation, missionaries help spread religion, and people don't always care or contemplate what they believe in.

~Timothy Leary