Introduction to the Cognitive Science of Religion: Connecting Evolution, Brain, Cognition and Culture

The cognitive science of religion (CSR) is a new scientific approach to understanding, explaining, and predicting religious features. It suggests that religion emerges naturally in humans with tractable similarities, with profound implications for how we understand religion. However, it is not without its critics, who fear that it may explain the ineffable mystery of religion away or prove or disprove the existence of God. An Introduction to the Cognitive Science of Religion provides an accessible introduction to the approach, including key findings and debates, and is an indispensable resource for introductory and advanced courses on religion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In recent years, a groundbreaking scientific approach has emerged to comprehend, explain, and predict various aspects of religion. The field of cognitive science of religion (CSR) has dedicated substantial research to unraveling the forces that influence human religiosity and the diverse forms of belief systems. It suggests that religion, akin to language or music, is a natural phenomenon that arises in humans, exhibiting recognizable similarities. This novel perspective holds profound implications for our understanding of religion, shedding light on its prevalence and the motivations behind individuals' willingness to engage in religious conflicts, even at the cost of their lives. While this approach has garnered widespread attention and admiration, it has also faced criticism from some quarters, who fear that scholars may be undermining the enigmatic nature of religion or inadvertently proving or disproving the existence of God.

To address these concerns, An Introduction to the Cognitive Science of Religion serves as a comprehensive and accessible guide for students and general readers. It provides a comprehensive overview of key findings and the ongoing debates that shape the field. The volume includes a glossary of essential terms, facilitating a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Each chapter is accompanied by thought-provoking questions, further reading suggestions, and chapter summaries that highlight the key points.

This book is an invaluable resource for introductory courses on religion, offering a comprehensive foundation for students to explore the complexities of this fascinating subject. Moreover, it serves as a valuable resource for advanced courses, providing a deeper exploration of the cognitive mechanisms underlying religious belief and behavior. By embracing the cognitive science of religion, we gain a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of one of the most profound and influential aspects of human existence.

Weight: 710g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138541467