Why are some so quick to follow the religio-spiritual advice of others who pose or are posed as authorities?

In the realm of the unknown and unknowable all are equal experts, whether wearing an ermine robe %26amp; collar or clothed in rags.Why are some so quick to follow the religio-spiritual advice of others who pose or are posed as authorities?
Quite right, I absolutely agree!





People need to utilize critical thinking and think for themselves on things. Otherwise, the outcome tends to be disappointing...Why are some so quick to follow the religio-spiritual advice of others who pose or are posed as authorities?
I think that it's partly desperation and partly a subtle form of laziness.





I'll explain that but firstly I need to take issue with your use of the terms 'unknown' and 'unknowable.'


While the numinous is certainly unknowable to the intellect,there are levels of mind, accessible through mysticism and meditation, where such knowledge is indeed achievable.


One of the great problems with any 'religious' discussion is that, if it usually takes place at the level of the intellect, it is about theory and mythical thinking and is thus doomed to failure and dissension.


If, however, we read the reports of mystics, from all backgrounds, discounting cultural differences, we see that they all tell the same story - spiritual truth exists, and it is beautiful.





To those who feel no pull towards spiritual discovery, the whole idea and process seems insane but to those who do feel that need it is very powerful and compelling.





With the decline of traditional churches in the west and the insistence on achievement in the world of the purely physical, people who yearn for spiritual development do not know where to turn and thus become easy prey for those who would pose as great teachers.





Genuine teachers do exist but their teaching involves hard work and discipline - for years!


Small wonder, then, that people conditioned to expect instant gratification will be attracted to 'gurus' who offer quick and easy enlightenment.
Glory to the first poet to shorten the distance between what you want and how you can get it.
Maybe they were lured in, like a fish to a fisherman.
Some people just need to believe in something. .