It was actually a class on the OT that led me to throw my 'research' books in the trash. It was through Restoration Fellowship and covered the first half of the OT. About the time I got to the dismembered concubine in Judges, I'd had enough. Upon further reflection, I realized that after years of trying, none of the so-called "promises" had come to pass anywhere around me. I tossed the research books and discovered Bart Ehrman.
None of that is to say the Bible hasn't had a huge impact on Western Civilization. There might not be evidence of the Exodus but the story has had a wide ranging, and I would argue positive, impact on the world.
It's those kind of things I look into now, i.e., the principles discussed in the Bible and how they have been implemented and their impact on humanity.
We seem to be creatures with leanings towards religion. Somehow it seems to provide comfort in a remarkably screwed up world.
-JJ