Quote Originally Posted by thir View Post
Historicallly speaking the fear of Hell has been a great factor through Medieval times in many countries. The fear of being involved in someone else's sins (and go to Hell by that route) could make for persecution and cruelty. Also later, during Puritan rule.
Yes, but this belief came much later than the Roman persecution of the Christians.

One program about coporal punishments for children down to 2 years old was explained by the families that it was better to beat them severely now, than risk them going to Hell if their behavior displeased god.
Yes, and in some cases it's necessary to beat them to death.

Other programs were likewise based on FEAR. To my great surprise, actually.
I'm not sure why anyone would be surprised by this. It's far easier to control people through fear than through contentment. Fear of death, fear of eternal damnation, fear of social exile. Most religious leaders learned long ago about the power of fear to keep their flocks in line.