The twin conceptions of sin and vindictive punishment seem to be at the root of much that is most vigorous, both in religion and politics. I cannot believe, as some psycho-analysts do, that the feeling of sin is innate, though I believe it to be a product of very early infancy. I think that, if this feeling could be eradicated, the amount of cruelty in the world would be very greatly diminished.
Source: Bertrand Russell: Ideas That Have Harmed Mankind，1946.
More info.:http://russell-j.com/beginner/0861HARM-060.HTM