This course explores the intersection of evolution, neuroscience, and the spiritual instinct. Participants delve into the origins and persistence of religious beliefs, the evolutionary psychology behind human belief systems, and the potential adaptive value of religious belief. The course aims to broaden perspectives on belief, discussing whether humans are inherently wired for belief and the emotional and social aspects of religion. The teaching method involves panel discussions, introspective sharing, and exploring the future implications of religion. This course is intended for individuals interested in the scientific exploration of spirituality, evolutionary biology, and neuroscience.
The Believing Brain - Evolution, Neuroscience, and the Spiritual Instinct
World Science Festival via YouTube
Overview
Syllabus
- Introduction
- Overview of religious beliefs
- Panelist intros
- Panelists share personal religious beliefs
- Broadening our views of belief
- Do other animals have a sense of spirituality?
- What is evolutionary psychology?
- Are humans wired for belief?
- Is there evidence of an internal predilection of religious belief?
- Searching for the origin of religious belief
- Is there an adaptive value of religious belief?
- Advantages of religious belief relating to the nervous system
- Why has religion persisted for so long?
- Religion as an emotional response vs a social mechanism
- The future of the role of religion
- What would aliens think of our religious beliefs?
Taught by
World Science Festival
