That's a fascinating question that historians and sociologists have debated for a long time. It's impossible to say definitively whether humanity would be "more advanced" without Christianity, as progress is such a complex and multifaceted thing. However, we can explore some arguments on both sides.
Arguments for advancement:
* Less suppression of scientific inquiry: Some argue that the Church, at times, suppressed scientific inquiry that contradicted religious doctrine. Without this, scientific progress might have been faster. Think of the Galileo affair.
* Different ethical framework: Christian ethics have shaped laws and social norms, but a different ethical framework might have led to different, potentially more progressive, outcomes in areas like social justice or economic equality.
* Fewer religious conflicts: Religious wars and conflicts have caused immense suffering and set back progress in many areas. Without Christianity, some of these conflicts might have been avoided.
* Focus on different values: Christianity emphasizes spiritual values, which some argue has detracted from focus on material and technological advancement.
Arguments against advancement (or for regression):
* Moral foundation: Christianity provided a moral foundation for Western civilization, influencing the development of laws, ethics, and social welfare systems. Without it, society might be more chaotic or unjust.
* Patronage of the arts and education: The Church has historically been a major patron of the arts, sciences, and education. Many universities and hospitals were founded by religious institutions.
* Social cohesion: Religion can provide social cohesion and a sense of community, which can be beneficial for stability and cooperation.
* Inspiration for progress: Some argue that Christian values, such as the inherent dignity of each person, have inspired progress in areas like human rights and social reform.
* Filling a void: Without Christianity, something else would likely have filled the void in terms of belief systems and social structures. There's no guarantee that this alternative would have been more conducive to progress.
It's important to remember:
* "Advancement" is subjective: What constitutes "advancement" is a matter of perspective. Technological progress is not the only measure of a society's success.
* Counterfactual history is speculative: It's impossible to know for sure what would have happened if Christianity had never existed. There are too many variables to consider.
* Christianity is diverse: Christianity is not a monolithic entity. Different denominations and interpretations have had different impacts on society.
In conclusion, there's no simple answer to your question. The impact of Christianity on human progress is a complex and multifaceted issue with arguments on both sides. It's a topic that requires careful consideration and a nuanced understanding of history.