Belief in a god would serve a useful purpose if it kept a check on man's desires to kill, maim,loot, enslave, etc., etc. Unfortunately belive in god so often serves as license to do those afore mentioned evils while absolving the individual of personal responsibility. It's the ultimate "get out of jail free" card. One can live a good life(which includes being good to others) without having to believe in a diety. Actions, rather than selective adherence to religious dogma are what's important.