Cognitive Science, Religion, and Theology: From Human Minds to Divine Minds

by Justin L. Barrett

Cognitive Science, Religion, and Theology is the eighth title published in the Templeton Science and Religion Series, in which scientists from a wide range of fields distill their experience and knowledge into brief tours of their respective specialties. In this volume, well-known cognitive scientist Justin L. Barrett offers an accessible overview of this interdisciplinary field, reviews key findings in this area, and discusses the implications of these findings for religious thought and practice. Cognitive science is the interdisciplinary study of minds and mental activity, and as such, it addresses a fundamental feature of what it is to be human. Further, as religious traditions concern ideas and beliefs about the nature of humans, the nature of the world, and the nature of the divine, cognitive science can contribute directly and indirectly to these theological concerns. Barrett shows how direct contributions come from the growing area called cognitive science of religion (CSR), which investigates how human cognitive systems inform and constrain religious thought, experience, and expression. CSR attempts to answer questions such Why do humans tend to be religious? And why are specific ideas (e.g., the possibility of an afterlife) so cross-culturally recurrent? Barrett also covers the indirect implications that cognitive science has for theology, such as human similarities and differences with the animal world, freedom and determinism, and the relationship between minds and bodies. Cognitive Science, Religion, and Theology critically reviews the research on these fascinating questions and discusses the many implications that arise from them. In addition, this short volume also offers suggestions for future research, making it ideal not only for those looking for an overview of the field thus far but also for those seeking a glimpse of where the field might be going in the future.

Genres: Psychology, Religion, Theology, Science, Christianity

245 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2011

Reviews

[Victoria Hawco]

Excellent read, when people ask why religion is worth studying and having give them this. Didn't even use it as a coaster.

[james spellman]

Cognitive science of religion

Completely blew me away. Very good introductory work on the evolutionary basis of religious thought as it is manipulated by cultural factors. The important take-home message here, is that despite there being scientific explanations for the development of religious thought, the truth or false hood of the belief is not necessarily affected by that evidence. In other words the cognitive mechanisms giving rise to religious thought make it justified for the human mind to hold those beliefs.

[Uzair]

Cool introduction into the field of cognitive science of religion (CSR). Though in its infancy, a highly fascinating and promising interdisciplinary field

[Sorosch Naderi]

Zie presentatie🦍

[György]

Book about the demon-haunted world and the lonely light that shines into the darkness...
I'm always ready to enjoy neuroscience.
Well done Mr. Barrett!

[Michael Ortega]

An excellent introduction to both Cognitive Science and its applications to the study of religion. Short and packed with information, yet slightly repetitive.

[Jzuchero]

my brain hurts.