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Only a living document can stand up to criticism and changing moral values. The bible is long since dead, attempts to reinterpret what has already been decided ring incredibly hollow. The Mormons have an advantage in this way. They keep all of their religious documents locked up where there is very limited access, and can bring out a new passage whenever they need to make a point, without worrying that it will have already been torn down by disbelievers.
As for it taking equal courage to believe or disbelieve in god, people will inevitably take the easier path. When religion offers a perfect authority figure and pre-established moral codes with no need for agonizing reflection over what is best for humanity, acceptance is easily done. In war-time, soldiers take comfort in 'only following orders', because it is a very ego-comforting way to absolve themselves of the taking of lives. God provides this same absolution, and with faith it is even stronger than the soldier's, since god is perceived as infallible.
I'm not saying these are negative adaptations; they are absolutely necessary to preserve the human psyche when the world seems out of control. But everyone must find their own rudder, and we should be respectful of alternative ways of beating back the darkness.
If some of these rudders seem overly-vulnerable to manipulation by those above, it is the choice of those who follow. As long as the follower is happy and does not oppress others through their actions, people should leave them be, no matter how deluded they seem to others.
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