If religion were eliminated we would eliminate a lot of power seekers; but their need for support in tithes or whatever has also resulted in their 'charitable' efforts.

At this point, we would also eliminate a lot of 'good' things done for people that won't otherwise happen.

The gold and gilt in the Vatican was just the percentage taken off the top by the scam artists called Popes.

Same with the Temple in Salt Lake City.

Or all those Catholic or Protestant cathederals across Europe.

Today's charities that aren't religion-based do the exact same thing.  

They all still take a percentage off the top, whether its Goodwill, St Vincent, United Way or Red Cross.