Highly.
Imagination is key to advancement. Whether a religion is true or not, it is apparent that we (humans) have went through several religions before settling on the religions we have today. Mythology is a good example.
Advancement goes well with socializing. Socializing needs a common interest in all that apply. Religions and beliefs tend to hold people together no matter the differences, especially in the early years of development. Even today, common believes and religions expand the world.
Competition bewteen believes and religions or the breaking away of them comes advancement. War; a way to destroy your enemies better. Education; reading, reasoning, and logic are more from breaking away. (Galileo).
