Putin embraces the Russian Orthodox Church as part of his nationalism. Also, Russia is only 13% atheist. Hardly a non-religious nation.

But, you're right, power is the real point. Religion is just one of the most hateful methods of justifying and maintaining power.

Democracy with socially regulated capitalism, in our experience, has a lighter touch and has thus far provided a lot of benefits to the vast majority of people.

You mention revolution, but don't specify from what or to what? Revolutions have a way of not going quite the way the idealists hope they will.

Russia is 72% Eastern Orthodox by population. The US is estimated to be ~63% split between flavors of christianity, for comparison.

So, you’re close but wrong country. Russia tried to get rid of religion but failed. The Russian Orthodox Church just kind of became part of the government. That’s why you see the priests blessing Russian weapons and stuff.

China on the other hand did get rid of religion pretty successfully. The reason communism strives to get rid of religion is because when people aren’t arguing over who’s imaginary supernatural friend loves his people more. It’s easier to get them to agree on things.

Now, I’m not going to pretend that this is a perfect plan. After all successfully getting rid of religion comes with a whole new set of pitfalls. But, I personally think the pros outweigh the cons.

Religion can be toxic, but so can non-religious nations like Russia under Putin.

You can die from snake venom. That doesn't mean cancer is harmless.

Bad people do bad things.

But for a good person to do bad things, that takes religion.