[naringas]

Science is functioning as a religion. it aids the mainstream state system in maintaining social stability. It informs people's beliefs about what is feasible and possible to do and what isn't.

It even answers the question "how to be happy?" (there are many "science-based" modern approaches sold in self-help books and the like)

modern science is basically a religion. there are even some "atheists" going around trying to get "religious people" to think critically and give up their superstitious beliefs.

granted, it's a more sophisticated social construction than old-world religion, but I base this claim in terms of their role and function.