Final answer:
Belief systems, particularly those rooted in religion and spirituality, protect individuals from mortality anxiety and bolster self-esteem by offering hope, consolation, and social support in the face of death.
Step-by-step explanation:
The system of beliefs that protects individuals from anxiety about their mortality and supports their self-esteem is often rooted in religion and spirituality. These belief systems provide comfort and consolation in the face of death, whether it's the death of a loved one or the contemplation of one's own mortality. People tend to have a strong impulse to retain beliefs that soothe them and offer hope, such as the desire for an eternal life or the survival of the soul after physical death.
For many, it is psychologically easier to maintain existing beliefs rather than face the existential void that might come with questioning those beliefs. This is because the familiar belief system plays a powerful role in maintaining a sense of order and control in life. Holding on to comforting beliefs can be seen as a demonstration of one's ability to control one's life, consolidating a sense of self and offering emotional stability.
Moreover, research suggests that those who have religious or spiritual affiliations often cope better with the concept of death due to social support and the hope provided by these systems. This supports the notion that spiritual beliefs can be a significant factor in managing existential fears and maintaining mental health.