Yes, it is used an instrument of control by callous leaders and to enforce conformity…I was just saying that even intelligent people can believe in it (like they can in modern conspiracy theories), even if it is just a basic requisite of belonging to your community. Unlike Spinoza and Galileo, who got excommunicated for being too public with their free thinking.

PS: same for Mu’tazilism, it failed because it forced rationalism on people…whereas St. Augustine tried a more conciliatory approach.