Religion and Society: the Evolutionary and Biological Connection

The interplay between society, culture, and religion has significantly shaped humanity throughout history. This article explores interdisciplinary theories that highlight how religion and society are interconnected within a biological framework. Recent advances in cognitive science and neuroscience...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Horvat, Saša (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Check availability: HBZ Gateway
Interlibrary Loan:Interlibrary Loan for the Fachinformationsdienste (Specialized Information Services in Germany)
Published: 2025
In: International journal of public theology
Year: 2025, Volume: 19, Issue: 1, Pages: 73-85
Further subjects:B Brain
B Religion
B Evolution
B Society
B Culture
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
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Description
Summary:The interplay between society, culture, and religion has significantly shaped humanity throughout history. This article explores interdisciplinary theories that highlight how religion and society are interconnected within a biological framework. Recent advances in cognitive science and neuroscience have prompted a deeper examination of religion’s adaptive value regarding survival and reproduction. Religious beliefs have been proposed as mechanisms for maintaining social norms and fostering cohesion. Neuroscience examines how religiosity relates to brain function. Patrick McNamara suggests that religion acts as a neurotool facilitating social cohesion and self-transformation. The article emphasizes that religious factors must be considered in societal structures, as religion is deeply embedded not only in human culture, but also in human biology.
ISSN:1569-7320
Contains:Enthalten in: International journal of public theology
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1163/15697320-20251640