I gave you 2 minutes and you did not convince me, despite me already holding the belief that a superior intelligence ultimately defines the entropy of the universe, be it an energy centre or whatever. If our universe was the product of a generated virtual reality, then we would also see that force as god in our eyes.

I think the issue here is the arrogance to suggest that others haven't contemplated this viewpoint from a million different angles.

I too see the similarities between general self help and religion which can both do amazing things for people - crosses as totems, prayer as positive self-talk, god as a visualization technique to help you believe that a superior being is moving mountains just for you and a general faith that the world and the universe is working in your favour.

Faith is a choice. If you know anything about psychology then you will know how empowering belief and faith can be. Unfortunately, organised religion has massive political power and so this can be used for political and ideological advantage.