Religion, Disease, and Immunology

Religion has evolved as a strategy for managing infectious disease, supporting physiological and psychological immune systems. However, it can become maladaptive, leading to autoimmune problems such as celibacy and anti-vaccination. Understanding the human fascination with religion requires considering the enduring need to manage infectious disease.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating book delves into the fascinating realm of religion, exploring its evolutionary origins and its profound impact on human societies. It argues that religion has emerged as a crucial strategy for managing the transmission, contraction, and eradication of infectious diseases throughout human history. The book showcases the diverse range of religious practices and beliefs, from purity and pollution codes to blood sacrifices and irrational beliefs, highlighting their role in supporting both the physiological and behavioral immune systems. Moreover, it delves into the intriguing paradox of religion, where it can sometimes become maladaptive, leading to "autoimmune problems" such as celibacy and anti-vaccination.

To unravel the enduring fascination with religion, the book employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from evolutionary and social psychology, human behavioral ecology, biological anthropology, Darwinian medicine, and religious studies. It offers insightful perspectives and compelling evidence to support its arguments, shedding light on the complex interplay between religion, biology, and human behavior.

Through its comprehensive exploration, this book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of religion and its role in shaping human societies. It challenges preconceived notions and encourages readers to approach religion with a fresh and open mind, recognizing its profound impact on our lives and societies. Whether one is interested in the origins of religion, the immune system, or the complex dynamics between religion and human behavior, this book offers a wealth of information and thought-provoking insights.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526629241