Why is being part of a religion a rational economic decision?

[Aeson]

Well, if you're homeless going to Church is probably the best way to get off the streets. (I'd recommend LDS... economically speaking their welfare system probably can't be beat.)

Just for business reasons, it probably puts you into contact with a lot of people you otherwise wouldn't be around, and could be a big difference in if you get the contract/job/whatever.

[MRT144]

but you can enjoy the benefits without contributing or upholding the church values.

being gay and smoking too although itd be a little hard to fake those.