Humans haven’t learned much in 2,000 years when it comes to religion and politics Religion has led to social tension and conflict, not just in today’s society, but dating back to 700 B.C., according to a new study published today in Current Anthropology.

University of Colorado anthropology Professor Arthur A. Joyce and University of Central Florida Associate Professor Sarah Barber found evidence in several Mexican archeological sites that contradict the long-held belief that religion acted to unite early state societies. It often had the opposite effect, the study said.

“It doesn’t matter if we today don’t share particular religious beliefs, when people in the past acted on their beliefs, those actions could have real, material consequences,” Barber said about the team’s findings. “It really behooves us to acknowledge religion when considering political processes.